Big Brother apologizes for Ali’s ‘Israel t-shirt’ amid backlash over episode edit

However, following accusations of antisemitism, the episode was removed from ITVX and reuploaded with the edited t-shirt graphic, which subsequently led some viewers to criticize the broadcaster for removing the images.

ITV has now outlined its reasons for making the decision in a statement, adding that Ali was “not aware of the implications and did not wish to cause any harm or offence”.

A spokesperson said: “All housemates’ items are checked by our production team before they enter the Big Brother house to ensure they meet the rules and compliance requirements. Big Brother does not allow entry of any personal items that could be considered harmful.

“We regret that the implications of this particular item of clothing were not fully understood at our baggage checks or prior to the broadcast of last night’s program. We apologize to any viewers who were offended by the broadcast and assure viewers that Big Brother was not aware of the implications of the image.”

The statement continued: “The item of clothing was removed from the home. The housemate was interviewed and expressed that he is unaware of the implications and does not wish to cause any harm or offence. Any offensive message associated with the image does not reflect Big Brother’s values ​​or beliefs.”

After the episode originally aired, the program came under pressure from several groups, including the Campaign Against Antisemitism, who lodged a complaint with Ofcom.

The complaint said: “How is this becoming the norm? This graphic has caused significant distress among the British Jewish community, who consider it a genocidal message similar to the ‘From River to Sea’ slogan, which calls for the elimination of the only Jewish state in the world. world.

“How did the program team allow this shirt to be used, let alone broadcast it on national television? This incident represents a serious breach of broadcasting standards.”

Following the backlash, the episode was removed from ITVX on Tuesday night, before the edited version was uploaded on Wednesday.

However, other viewers criticized the decision to edit the t-shirt, and some even called for a boycott of the show.

One viewer wrote: “Why are you censoring a woman wearing a watermelon print t-shirt @bbuk / @ITVX editing the show to remove the print? producers.. What has UK TV become?

Some also pointed out that another housemate, Khaled, is Palestinian and has been vocal about his support for his country.

Big Brother continues Sunday to Friday at 9pm on ITV2 and ITVX.

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