CBB’s Amanda Barrie defends Ann Widdecombe’s homophobic views: ‘It doesn’t affect me’
The former Coronation Street star entered a civil partnership in 2014.
By Will Stroude
Celebrity Big Brother’s Amanda Barrie shocked viewers over the weekend after clashing with fellow housemate Courtney Act over Ann Widdecombe’s homophobic views.
The former Coronation Street actress, 82, was involved in a heated confrontion with Act – real name Shane Jarek – over the drag queen’s complaints about Ann’s anti-gay beliefs, saying he was using it as an “excuse” to attack the former Conservative MP.
It all began when Shane told fellow housemate Malika that he was worried about Ann’s anti-gay views being given a platform on the Channel 5 reality show.
“We’re in a position of privilege and we’re celebrated in the public eye. But there are kids at home and she’s sending out the wrong message,” the former Drag Race star said.
After a day of escalating tension Barrie – who came out as bisexual in 2002 – warned Shane to lay off Ann, telling him: “I think the gay rights thing is a bit dodgy actually. Quite frankly I get on with Ann and I’m a civil partnership.
“That’s it full stop. I like her.”
The actress, who entered a civil partnership in 2014, added: “Do you think you’re sort of a platform for gay rights or something?”
Explaining that Ann’s homophobia has had real-world consequences for LGBT, Shane replied: “In 23 years of parliament she voted against every single pro LGBT piece of legislation which affects the civil rights of a human being.”
The comments caused Amanda to remark – wthout a hint of irony: “It doesn’t affect me at all. I’m married!”
Ann, just in case you needed reminding, voted against the Civil Partnerships Bil in 2004 on its third reading.
Undeterred, Shane continued: “I’ve been like this since i was born and I didn’t expect every single person to understand who we are. It’s not all about gay rights. Ann doesn’t even agree with abortion.”
Fed up with the argument, Amanda stated: “I’m going to bed now. I can’t take too much bull****.”
To which Shane replied: “Well don’t have a conversation you started and can’t end.”
Following the fiery exchange, Amada entered the bedroom, where she confided in Ann about the bust-up.
She told Widdecombe: “I called him out, I’m afraid. But it’s not my business to do so and influence others.
“You can’t use gay rights as an excuse dear!”
Celebrity Big Brother continues tonight at 9pm on Channel 5.