ITV has taken immediate action to eject parish councillor George Gilbert from the Big Brother house after he repeatedly violated programme rules through inappropriate conduct and language.
The broadcaster confirmed the 23-year-old Braintree resident's departure from the reality series on Wednesday, stating he would no longer participate in any remaining episodes.
"Following repeated use of unacceptable language and behaviour, George has been removed from the Big Brother House with immediate effect and will no longer participate in the programme," a Big Brother spokesperson announced.
The decision came after Mr Gilbert had already been issued a formal warning for his conduct but continued to breach programme standards.
George Gilbert has been removed from the Big Brother house
|ITV
Programme officials had previously cautioned Mr Gilbert on Monday's broadcast after he mimicked fellow contestant Sam Ashby in a manner that caused distress.
Mr Ashby later spoke to Big Brother about feeling mocked, explaining: "The whole George situation, I think basically I think it all just came to a bit of a head.
"And that impression - it was him doing it - mocking me as if I have some kind of disability or something, which is just like rude anyway."
The incident left Ashby in tears, describing how other male housemates' laughter made him feel "like I was back in school again."
ITV had previously warned George Gilbert about his behaviour
|ITV
Sources indicate Mr Gilbert received multiple warnings that weren't broadcast due to content exceeding acceptable standards, with tonight's programme also omitting the specific remarks that prompted his ejection.
The contestant's departure has necessitated changes to Friday's scheduled eviction, with voting arrangements being revised to accommodate his absence.
Programme officials closed the original public vote that included Mr Gilbert alongside Cameron Barnes, Elsa Rae and Richard Storry, announcing that all previously cast votes would be discounted.
"Your previous votes won't count, but a new vote with Cameron B, Elsa and Richard will open tomorrow and you will get 5 more votes," the programme stated on social media.
Latest developments
The revised voting system will proceed with only three nominees facing potential eviction, with additional information expected during Wednesday evening's Late and Live broadcast.
Despite the disruption, Friday's eviction episode will continue as scheduled, though viewers will need to resubmit their preferences under the new voting parameters.
Mr Gilbert had become a divisive figure in the house, receiving six nominations from fellow contestants during this week's voting round - more than any other housemate.
Following his formal warning, the parish councillor claimed he would need to "walk on eggshells" around Ashby, whom he subsequently nominated for eviction.
ITV confirmed the Big Brother housemate was removed
|ITV
His controversial remarks and conduct had generated significant viewer reaction throughout his time in the programme, with tensions escalating between him and various housemates.
The broadcaster has confirmed that Mr Gilbert will not return to complete the series, with his exit representing one of the most serious disciplinary actions taken during the current run.
Tonight's episode will feature Gilbert's final moments in the house, though the specific comments that triggered his removal will remain unbroadcast due to content restrictions.