A recent episode of Celebrity Big Brother UK 2025 has stirred online backlash after a “creepy” interaction between former Love Island star Chris Hughes, 32, and pop sensation JoJo Siwa, 21. In a scene that played out during a light-hearted group challenge, Hughes made a sexually suggestive comment that many viewers say crossed a line—especially given JoJo’s open identity as a gay woman and the substantial age gap between the two.
This incident has not only ignited conversations about respect and boundaries on reality TV but has also brought attention to broader themes of power dynamics, age, and LGBTQ+ representation. Fans and critics alike have taken to social media to voice their discomfort, forcing producers and participants to reflect on what is—and isn’t—acceptable in televised interactions today.
Whether you’re a reality TV fan or someone interested in cultural discourse, this episode of CBB serves as a striking case study of how quickly moments can spark outrage and lead to real-world consequences.
The Controversial Scene
What Chris Hughes Said
The moment in question took place during a memory-based game titled “I Went to the Market,” where contestants had to remember and repeat increasingly long lists of items. JoJo Siwa impressed everyone by flawlessly reciting a lengthy list. While the rest of the room applauded her memory skills, Chris Hughes offered a comment that viewers described as “bizarre” and “inappropriate.”
“That was impressive—a big turn-on, that,” he quipped.
To many, this crossed a line. The remark was not only sexual in nature but made during a moment where no such tone had been set. It felt out of place, jarring, and most of all, unsettling given the environment and JoJo’s public identity.
Read more from The Independent on the Chris Hughes controversy
JoJo Siwa’s Reaction
Siwa, caught in the moment, didn’t respond directly to Hughes. However, her visible discomfort was noted by viewers. Many pointed out her body language—a slight freeze and nervous laugh—as a sign she wasn’t okay with the comment but chose not to escalate the situation in the moment.
Known for her bubbly demeanor and strong stance on self-respect and identity, Siwa has long been a vocal advocate for the LGBTQ+ community. Her fans, many of whom are part of that community, were quick to come to her defense.
Viewer Response Across Social Media
Social platforms were flooded with responses shortly after the episode aired. Fans labeled Hughes’ comment as “gross,” “tone-deaf,” and “disrespectful.” The fact that Siwa is not only younger but also clearly uninterested in male attention made the comment feel invasive to many.
Some notable tweets included:
“That Chris Hughes moment made my skin crawl. JoJo looked SO uncomfortable. Gross.”
— @popculturesavvy
Imagine someone saying that to a gay woman on national TV and thinking it’s okay. #CBBUK do better.”
— @safespacefan
These aren’t just comments; they’re an indictment of how reality TV still struggles with enforcing respectful boundaries among its stars.
Check out more reactions and details on EW’s coverage of the show
Age Gap and Power Dynamics in Reality TV
Why the Age Difference Raised Eyebrows
At 32, Chris Hughes is 11 years older than JoJo Siwa. While such age gaps might be common in dating contexts, the issue becomes problematic when combined with sexual comments, power dynamics, and public scrutiny. This isn’t just a private interaction—it played out on national television in front of millions.
For fans, it wasn’t simply the age—it was the context. Siwa has built her brand on youth empowerment, while Hughes gained fame on Love Island, a show centered around romantic competition. Bringing that vibe into Celebrity Big Brother, a show with a different tone, felt like a misstep.
Fans’ Concerns About Respect and Consent
This isn’t just about one “creepy” comment. It’s about the culture of dismissing such behavior as harmless banter. Viewers are calling for producers to take stronger stances against on-screen interactions that blur the line between friendly and inappropriate.
The term “consent culture” has come up frequently, especially in discussions around what kinds of behavior are permissible on reality shows. The public expects modern entertainment to reflect real-world shifts in awareness about boundaries, consent, and representation.
