Mickey Rourke Launches Crowdfunding to Avoid Eviction

Actor Mickey Rourke has initiated a crowdfunding effort to prevent his eviction from a residence in Los Angeles. The 73-year-old performer is seeking public assistance to cover $60,000 in unpaid rent.

This financial appeal follows a controversial stint on the reality television program Celebrity Big Brother. Rourke viewed the show as a potential avenue to stabilize his finances, but his participation ended abruptly. He was removed from the competition due to behavior described as 'threatening and aggressive' toward fellow housemates.

Despite receiving a substantial appearance fee for the show, the actor continues to face economic difficulties. Rourke, a former icon of the 1980s, cited a lack of quality film roles as a primary motivation for joining the reality series.

At 73 years old, Mickey Rourke is facing significant housing insecurity. The actor has resorted to a 'crowdfunding' strategy to address a debt of $60,000 in back rent. This financial shortfall places him at immediate risk of losing his home in Los Angeles.

Rourke's current situation marks a stark contrast to his past status as a generational icon. His career highlights include major roles in films such as 9 1/2 Weeks (1986) and Angel Heart (1987). However, recent years have been defined by financial instability and career struggles.

In a bid to reverse his fortunes, Rourke accepted a role as a contestant on Celebrity Big Brother. He explained his decision as a choice between the reality show and a low-quality film project. 'It was this or a really bad independent movie, and I am up to here with doing very bad independent movies,' Rourke said regarding his motivation for entering the house.

Despite the financial incentive, Rourke's time on the program was short-lived. Producers removed him from the competition due to his conduct. Reports indicated that his behavior was deemed 'threatening and aggressive' toward other participants.

Although his tenure on the show was brief, the appearance reportedly came with a significant payday. British media outlets indicated that Rourke was the highest-paid contestant of that edition, receiving a check totaling 600,000 euros.

Rourke's participation in Celebrity Big Brother was part of a broader effort to regain public attention and financial stability. He had hoped that 2025 would serve as a year of 'return and redemption.' Instead, he continued to make decisions that drew scrutiny regarding his career trajectory.

Once celebrated for his dramatic performances, Rourke has struggled to secure roles comparable to his earlier successes. The decision to join a reality television show, followed by his expulsion, highlights the difficulties he has encountered in maintaining a stable career in the entertainment industry.