A veteran Hollywood actor has formally apologized after making a series of comments directed at a younger co-star during a televised reality competition, remarks that were widely criticized as inappropriate and offensive.
The incident occurred during a recent broadcast of the popular series. The actor, 72, engaged the 21-year-old performer in a conversation that quickly turned to questions about personal relationships and identity. After the younger star mentioned their partner, the older actor suggested that their time together in the house could alter the younger star’s self-described orientation.
The younger contestant responded firmly, asserting the stability and happiness of their relationship. The exchange drew immediate concern from other housemates, with one directly labeling the actor’s conduct as prejudiced and another stepping in to challenge the behavior.
Following this intervention, the actor used a derogatory term, initially claiming it was a reference to an unrelated object. He was subsequently summoned by the show’s producers for a private discussion.
In that meeting, producers reviewed the footage with the actor and issued a formal warning, stating his language was unacceptable and that any repeat could result in his removal from the program. The actor offered an apology to the production team, stating he had no “dishonorable intentions” and that he was “just talking smack.”
He later approached the younger star directly to express regret, citing a “short fuse” and insisting he meant no harm. The apology was accepted.
The actor had entered the program as a final entrant, with his arrival marked by an energetic, if somewhat chaotic, greeting from the existing housemates.
