Big Brother fans were shocked to see a disclaimer plastered across their television screens, warning viewers for the first time in 15 seasons that the houseguests may reveal prejudices that “CBS does not condone.”
“Big Brother is a reality show about a group of people who have no privacy 24/7," the disclaimer reads as quoted by E! News. "At times, the Houseguests may reveal prejudices and other beliefs that CBS does not condone. Views or opinions expressed by a Houseguest are those of the individuals speaking and do not represent the views or opinions of CBS. Viewer discretion is advised."
The disclaimer comes after a series of racist and homophobic comments were made. Texas native Aaryn Gries is at the center of the controversy, as is New York former pageant coordinator GinaMarie Zimmerman. Since the comments were first revealed online following the After Dark life stream, the bullying and comments only escalated.
Gries’ main target has remained Candice Stewart, an African-American Speech Therapist. Zimmerman has also jumped in to belittle Stewart.
Helen Kim, an Asian-American Political Consultant, has also been the victim of Gries’ comments. Both Gries and Zimmerman have both been fired after their prejudices were revealed.
Some of the houseguests addressed Gries’ hurtful comments during Sunday’s episode, but the 22-year-old simply brushed the comments off as jokes which were taken out of context.
Image: CBS