As controversy over her treatment on Celebrity Big Brother continues to grow, Shilpa Shetty has become a favourite to win the reality TV show. The beautiful Indian screen star has impressed not only her mum but millions of viewers with her dignity in the face of increasing hostility from three of her housemates.
Matters came to a head on Wednesday night when Shilpa and Jade argued over a stock cube, prompting a tirade from Jade and Danielle. "To see her crying on television for a bunch of people bullying or abusing her in a foreign country, it is not a nice feeling as parents to watch," said Shilpa's mother Sunanda from her Bombay home. "We believe she has showed the utmost dignity and are very proud of her. What these women have been saying to her is very wrong."
The current storm surrounding the series shows no signs of abating as a TV watchdog was flooded with over 20,000 complaints about the behaviour of some of the contestants towards the Bollywood actress. And, speaking to fellow housemate Cleo Rocos, Shilpa has revealed her fears that she is a targe of racist abuse.
Following the Shilpa's clash with fellow housemates Jade Goody, Jo O'Meara and Danielle Lloyd, Cleo tried to diffuse the situation by assuring the 31-year-old actress, "I don't think there's anything racist in it." Shilpa remained adamant, however, replying: "It is, I'm telling you."
Such is the furore over her treatment on the show there have been demonstrations in India - where she is feted as one of the country's biggest stars - and the story has made headlines around the world. Even Chancellor Gordon Brown, on a visit to Bangalore, has been drawn into the debacle, being forced to defend Britain's reputation for tolerance and fairness.
A statement made by Channel 4 chiefs admitted there had "undoubtedly been a cultural and class clash between her and three of the British females in the house". But despite the spiralling numbers of complaints from the public, the organisation insisted there had been "no overt racial abuse or racist behaviour".
Shilpa is now expected to win the show, despite being nominated for Friday's eviction by fellow housemates. Jade, 25, and A-Team actor Dirk Benedict are also up for eviction, with former dental nurse Jade - who is currently leading Hellomagazine.com's online poll (above right) as readers' favourite to be ousted - seen as the one most likely to be voted out.
Meanwhile, PR guru Max Clifford has warned that Jade's behaviour could have a negative effect on her earnings once she leaves the show. "Her whole multi-million pound career is in jeopardy," he says, adding she faces a crucial time ahead. "She must go on the media offensive immediately," he advises. "She needs to try and show she's not a bully or a racist - but she'd better have a good explanation."
Three new housemates were expected to enter the BB house this week, but their arrival has been delayed by the current controversy. They are likely to include paparazzi boss Darryn Lyons and former footballer Mark Bosnich.
Photo: © Alphapress.com
Photo: © Alphapress.com
Photo: © Alphapress.com
