Celebrity Big Brother: Christopher Biggins removed from house over 'offensive' comments

'Big Brother does not tolerate... language capable of causing widespread offence,' broadcaster Channel 5 says

Christopher Biggins entering the Celebrity Big Brother house ( Ian West/PA)

Actor Christopher Biggins has been removed from the Celebrity Big Brother house after he made comments “capable of causing great offence”.

The 67-year-old entertainer was the first person to enter the house during the programme's launch show and was the first contestant to leave.

In a statement, the Channel 5 reality TV show said: “Big Brother has taken the decision to remove Christopher Biggins from the Celebrity Big Brother house.”

It went on to explain that Biggins “has made a number of comments capable of causing great offence to housemates and the viewing public” and went on to stress that “Big Brother does not tolerate offensive language capable of causing widespread offence”.

Channel 5 has not revealed the comments made by Biggins that prompted the action, but host Emma Willis confirmed during the live eviction show that the details surrounding his exit will be revealed during Saturday's show.

Grant Bovey was the first celebrity to be evicted from the show by the public vote.

Celebrity Big Brother viewers were shocked when remarks Biggins made about bisexual people needing to “pick a team” were aired earlier in the week.

The TV and pantomime star was granted immunity from eviction after successfully completing a task where he was the secret boss of the house.

Bovey, the ex-husband of Anthea Turner, lost Friday's public vote against DJ James Whale.

Following his departure Bovey insisted Biggins had been the head of the household before his removal and everyone had looked up to him.

Asked who would replace the entertainer is that role, Bovey replied: “I don't think James will because, he can't hold court the way that Biggins did. I've got to be honest ... it's going to go to pot. There is no natural leader.”

Press Association