Celebrity Big Brother 2016: David Gest forced to leave house for 'medical reasons'

His exit will be broadcast tonight

(Channel 5)

David Gest has left the Celebrity Big Brother house, Channel 5 has confirmed.

The producer and TV personality elected to leave citing 'medical reasons', having previously been exempt from tasks due to ill health.

A spokesperson for Channel 5 said: ‘Due to medical reasons, David Gest has decided to leave the Celebrity Big Brother House. His exit will appear in tonight’s show on Channel 5 at 9pm.’

The 62-year-old was recently given time alone in a separate room, sparking some concern over his health, though it is not clear whether this is connected.

“David has been unwell and given time to rest and recuperate in Big Brother’s spare bedroom within the house," a spokesperson explained at the time.

His exit follows that of Jonathan Cheban and Gest was generally a hit with viewers.

He was at the centre of a bizarre row last week, when fellow contestant Tiffany Pollard presumed Angie Bowie was talking about Gest when she said "David is dead".