Big Brother housemate Sam Giffen has been criticised by viewers after using a homophobic slur.

The model and hair stylist, who is gay, called fellow gay housemates Ryan Ruckledge and Hughie Maughan “bum boys”.

Sam’s outburst came in the aftermath of a heated row which was broadcast in Thursday’s instalment of the Channel 5 show. The argument was sparked when Big Brother provided the house with some alcohol.

Sam Giffen (Isabel Infantes/PA)
Sam Giffen (Isabel Infantes/PA)

Contestants Chelsea Singh, Alex Cannon and Sam combined the drinks to make a punch, angering some of the other housemates.

Hughie, who has been romantically intimate with Ryan on camera, got involved and the confrontation quickly escalated. Following a shouting match between housemates, Big Brother called Sam to the diary room in an attempt to defuse the situation.

Sam said: “Everyone’s shouting in my face. I’ve done nothing wrong!” He added that he would not be picked on by “bum boys” – a reference to Hughie and Ryan.

Big Brother housemates row in the bedroom (Channel 5)
Big Brother housemates row in the bedroom (Channel 5)

Channel 5 has been contacted for a comment.

On social media, viewers criticised him for using a homophobic term.

Many called for Big Brother to reprimand Giffen for his offensive language.