Stacy Francis has received a warning on Celebrity Big Brother, after labelling Austin Armacost a “gay boy”.
The 47-year-old singer, most famous for being a contestant on The X Factor U.S., caused a social media stir when she commented on Austin’s sexuality during a chat with Coleen Nolan and James Jordan.
As the housemates discussed sleeping arrangements, Stacy admitted she was shocked that her pal Ray J had said he wouldn’t share a bed with DJ Brandon Block, but hadn’t ruled out sharing a double bed with Austin.
“He would sleep with the gay boy!? Isn’t Austin gay?” Stacy said, before a clearly stunned James replied: “I’m straight… He’s gay. That wouldn’t bother me.”
James and Coleen’s shocked reactions to her comment led to Stacy attempting to backtrack, telling them: “I know! I’m being sarcastic. Everyone’s so serious!”
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But Stacy’s remark was concerning enough for show bosses to issue her with a warning.
“As part of standard procedures, Big Brother often reminds housemates that language in the house can raise concerns and this was discussed with Stacy,” a statement from show representatives to MailOnline read.
Viewers were quick to slam Stacy for her comment, which was aired on last night’s show, with one writing: “So she starts to tip toe into homophobia…
“Clearly being gay is a problem to Stacy #CBB… Okay (Celebrity Big Brother) you need to pull up #Stacy for that homophobic comment!! 2017 and I’m appalled at the ignorance!!”
Another added: “Stacy a little homophobia then what’s wrong with a straight man sleeping in the same bed with a gay one…
“Stacy coming across a tad homophobic and back tracking when realising the rest of them aren’t #CBB’.”
Soon after entering the house New Star Stacy was chosen to be “edited out” by the All Stars, and exchanged words with “producers” Heidi and Spencer Pratt.
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Now Stacy has some company after former Braveheart actor James Cosmo and Brandon were chosen to join her.