Celebrity Big Brother star Chesney Hawkes’ daughter Jesse has spoken out after fans criticised the singer for not stepping in during a controversial exchange between former housemate Mickey Rourke and JoJo Siwa on the show.
The row sparked backlash online after Hollywood actor Mickey, 72, made a controversial comment to JoJo about her sexuality, appearing to question her identity in a way that left viewers – and housemates – stunned.
The incident quickly became one of the most talked-about moments of the series so far, with fans taking to social media to express their outrage. Some accused Chesney, 53, of failing to defend JoJo or challenge Mickey’s remarks, especially after earlier referencing that his daughter identifies as part of the LGBTQ+ community.
But, sitting down for an exclusive chat with us, 21-year-old Jesse defended her dad, insisting that viewers often don’t actually see the full picture.
“When Mickey said that thing to JoJo – and my dad had previously mentioned that I, his kid, am part of the community – a lot of people got mad at him for not speaking up.”
“But you don’t see everything,” Jesse explained, “You see 45 minutes out of his 24 hour day and he’s the type of person who would have stepped in if needed. He would’ve spoken up.”
The university student admitted it’s been difficult to watch her dad face online criticism over that moment in particular.
“I really don’t like people saying bad things about my dad on that topic or saying I’d be disappointed in him – because I wouldn’t,” Jesse continued, “It was making me upset seeing those comments because they don’t know what happened in there.”
Chesney, best known for his 90s chart-topper The One and Only, has become a hit with viewers during his time in the iconic house so far – thanks to his candid confessions, cheeky sense of humour and free-spirited approach – including stripping off on camera.
Jesse, who was there to wave him off on launch night, said watching her dad on screen has been emotional. “I’m at uni so I don’t see him that often,” she shared. “Seeing him walk up that stage was very emotional.”
She’s also fiercely proud of how far he’s come – even if she secretly wants him out of the house so they can reunite. “Part of me wants him to be evicted so I can see him again,” she joked with us, “Jokes aside though, I want him to go far. He seems really happy.”
And if student Jesse could sneak a message into the house? “That I’m so proud of him – and that I’m stressed about my dissertation!”
The Celebrity Big Brother live final takes place on Friday 25 April, 9pm, ITV1
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