May 27, 2009 12:07

Coolio's 'Big Brother' actions justified by Ofcom

Ofcom rules that his behaviour on programme was to be expected

Coolio's appearance on this year's 'Celebrity Big Brother' - during which he was accused of bullying and being sexist by some viewers - has been defended by television watchdog Ofcom.

A report into the rapper's January appearance was launched after 527 people complained about his behaviour on the show, with some criticising his actions towards former Liberty X star Michelle Heaton.

Others felt that he was unfairly stereotyped as an aggressive black man.

In the report, completed yesterday (May 26), Ofcom stated that Coolio's actions on the show should not have been unanticipated by viewers, reports BBC News.

"Such a role, after 10 years of 'Big Brother', is generally expected by the audience," the ruling states. "Any potentially offensive content that was shown and the manner in which the friction and the arguments were handled and presented by 'Big Brother' on behalf of Channel 4 were adequately justified by the context."

Channel 4, who broadcast the show, reacted positively to the ruling.

"Conflicts can arise within the 'Big Brother' house, but both the producers and commissioning editors encourage housemates to work differences out amongst themselves initially," a statement from the network read.