'Big Brother’s George Gilbert Fired from School Job Following Reality TV Controversy

George Gilbert, a parish councillor from Essex, entered the 2025 season of Big Brother UK as part of a diverse cast that included several LGBTQ+ housemates and individuals from a range of backgrounds. The show’s producers, ITV, have emphasized training for all contestants on “respect, dignity, and inclusion” and maintain strict policies regarding language and behaviour in the house. Despite these measures, Gilbert received multiple formal warnings for inappropriate language and conduct, much of which was not aired due to broadcast standards .

Gilbert’s removal was precipitated by several incidents. Notably, during a game of Truth or Dare, he mimicked Sam Ashby, a queer housemate who uses he/they/she pronouns, employing gestures and language widely considered offensive. After being confronted by Big Brother, Gilbert apologized to Sam and acknowledged the impact of his actions, stating his intent to avoid causing further harm . However, this was not an isolated incident; Gilbert had previously referenced Adolf Hitler as “misguided” in a discussion about human nature and made controversial remarks during conversations about race, antisemitism, and LGBTQ+ topics. These included comments about “Jewish conspiracy theories” and questioning the portrayal of same-sex relationships in media, which drew criticism from both housemates and viewers .

Producers ultimately determined that Gilbert’s repeated use of language and behaviour that contravened the show’s standards warranted his immediate removal. ITV’s official statement cited “repeated use of unacceptable language and behaviour,” and confirmed that he would no longer participate in the programme .

Following his exit from Big Brother, Gilbert was dismissed from his new job as a caretaker at a local school. According to Gilbert, he had worked only two shifts before a teacher recognized him and contacted the agency, leading to his removal because of his conduct on the show . Gilbert has publicly lamented the consequences, stating on TalkTV that he has been “cancelled again” and expressing frustration over the media portrayal that he claims does not reflect his perspective .

Gilbert remains listed as a councillor for Finchingfield Parish Council, but may still face misconduct proceedings as local residents have lodged formal complaints about his televised behaviour .

The incidents involving Gilbert have prompted renewed discussion about the obligations of reality TV platforms to protect marginalized groups from harassment and discrimination. LGBTQ+ advocates have underscored the importance of both preventative and responsive measures when contestants make derogatory remarks, particularly when such behaviour targets individuals based on gender identity or sexual orientation . Sam Ashby, the housemate mimicked by Gilbert, was supported by fellow contestants who immediately challenged the offensive behaviour and engaged in open dialogue about its impact .

Critics argue that while reality TV offers an opportunity to increase visibility for LGBTQ+ people and other underrepresented groups, it also places them at risk of public humiliation and harm when appropriate safeguards are not enforced. Several commentators have called for more robust support for contestants and for networks to take greater responsibility in addressing hate speech, microaggressions, and discriminatory conduct on air .

Ultimately, the case of George Gilbert highlights the intersection of media responsibility, employment consequences, and the ongoing need for vigilance against discrimination in both public and private spheres.