An episode of Big Brother has been pulled from ITVX after housemate Ali Bromley wore a t-shirt that sparked controversy. Ali, a forensic psychologist, wore a t-shirt featuring a watermelon design, symbolising Palestine, which led to the episode’s removal from the streaming platform.
Although ITV did not confirm the exact reason for the episode being taken down, the broadcaster mentioned on X (formerly Twitter) that the decision was due to “compliance reasons.” In response to viewer queries, ITV stated that the episode would be replaced and made available later the same evening.
It has since reappeared with the t-shirt edited out.
The Watermelon Symbolism
The watermelon image on Ali’s t-shirt sparked debate among viewers. The fruit has long been associated with Palestinian resistance to occupation, as its red, green, white, and black colours match those of the Palestinian flag. After the Arab-Israeli war in 1967, it was illegal to display the Palestinian flag in Israel. Although the ban was lifted in 1993, the watermelon remains a symbol of solidarity with Palestine, especially online.
Last year, Israel’s National Security Minister, Itamar Ben-Gvir, ordered the removal of Palestinian flags from public spaces, further intensifying the watermelon’s symbolic role.
Viewer Reactions and Backlash
Ali, who has previously worn a t-shirt supporting transgender rights with the slogan “Trans rights are human rights,” was met with both praise and criticism for her decision to wear the watermelon t-shirt. Some viewers commended her for showing solidarity with Palestine, while others criticised the show for airing the episode.
One viewer wrote, “Ali should be applauded for these t-shirts, first for supporting trans rights and now for Palestine. Honestly, queen energy right there.” Another commented, “I love how she’s brought both pro-Palestine and pro-trans messages to the show. I just love this woman.”
However, the Campaign Against Antisemitism voiced concerns over the graphic on Ali’s t-shirt, stating that it caused “significant distress among the British Jewish community.” They filed a complaint with Ofcom, questioning why the show’s staff allowed the t-shirt to be worn and aired. They described the incident as a “serious violation of broadcasting standards.”
ITV’s Response
ITV has not explicitly stated whether the controversy surrounding Ali’s t-shirt is the reason behind the episode being pulled, but the broadcaster’s decision to remove the episode for “compliance reasons” has led many to speculate that the t-shirt was the cause. The episode has since been re-uploaded, with ITV assuring viewers that it would be made available again late on Wednesday.
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