Faryal Makhdoom has threatened to expose ITV after she was dropped from ‘Celebrity Big Brother’, just days before the show airs.
The wife of Amir Khan was reportedly signed up for the show. However, Faryal later said ‘Celebrity Big Brother’ axed her over her pro-Palestine views on social media.
On Instagram, Faryal said: “As many of you know, I was offered to do a show for which the producers had offered me a few years ago and I had previously refused.
“This time, they made a very lucrative offer and after a lot of convincing, I finally agreed to sign for the show. I also wanted to do this show to make it more inclusive for the Muslim community.
“But it seems from my social media activity and being pro-Palestine is not appropriate for ITV and its sponsors. Mind you, ITV and this particular show has had many controversial people on it before, but for some reason, I was singled out.
“I was told to step down 10 days before going in. I have never in my life been treated like this.
“It’s a violation of free speech. This is why cowards with a huge following (especially Muslims) refuse to speak on this issue because they deprive you of opportunities and so you have no choice but to support them and stand them.
“Bear in mind, I was offered substantial money not to speak on this issue, but I rejected it. For me, no amount of money will ever stop me from speaking on the injustice happening in Palestine.”
ITV responded and denied Faryal’s claims, with a spokesperson saying: “We meet numerous prospective housemates when casting for ‘Celebrity Big Brother’, however the final lineup is not confirmed until closer to transmission.
“As per our welfare protocols, we are unable to comment on the casting process for individual prospective Housemates, other than to say that suitability to participate is determined by a number of factors.” Faryal hit back, sharing what appeared to be a screenshot of her contract between herself and Celebrity Big Brother producer Banijay.
She wrote: “Attempting to downplay a situation when I have my contract right here.” In another post, she said: “Do better with the lies ITV. I had gone through all of the relevant and necessary assessments, including a mental health assessment.
“My flights were booked and hotel admission a week prior to entering the house confirmed. However, 10 days before, my PR team were informed by ITV that there were some issues regarding my social media in particular relating to some new sponsors they may have.
“So, let’s not force me to start posting the documentary evidence.” In a video, Faryal Makhdoom ranted that it was a “violation of free speech” as she insisted her axe was because of her views.
She also claimed to have been offered money not to speak about the issue. Faryal stated: “I was offered substantial money not to speak on this issue, but I rejected it.
“For me, no amount of money will ever stop me from speaking on the injustice happening in Palestine.” She then urged her Instagram followers to “boycott these genocide supporters”.
