Mickey Rourke Denies Association with Humiliating Fundraising Campaign
Hollywood veteran Mickey Rourke has distanced himself from a crowdfunding initiative aimed at raising nearly $100,000 to support him amid claims of an eviction threat. The actor expressed his frustration and confusion over the campaign, urging those who have contributed to retract their donations.
Why It Matters
This story highlights the challenges faced by celebrities during financial hardships, and it raises ethical questions about the use of crowdfunding platforms. Rourke’s reaction underscores the potential issues that can arise when personal struggles are publicized without consent.
Key Developments
- Rourke posted a video on Instagram clarifying he is not involved with the fundraising campaign entitled “Help Mickey Rourke Stay in His Home.”
- The crowdfunding effort, started on GoFundMe, was reportedly organized by an assistant linked to Rourke’s manager.
- Rourke requested that donors seek refunds, stating he would never ask for charity.
- The actor acknowledged past difficulties with his career but affirmed he is currently managing his situation without external financial help.
Full Report
Celebrity Fundraising Confusion
Mickey Rourke, the Oscar-nominated actor known for his roles in classic films, took to Instagram to express his dismay regarding a GoFundMe page that was set up to collect donations for his supposed financial troubles. The page, which reportedly aimed to assist in preventing his eviction, has raised close to $100,000 from concerned fans. Rourke clarified that he had no knowledge of the initiative and emphasized his perplexity over its existence.
In his vide, Rourke addressed his 488,000 followers, stating, “If I needed money, I wouldn’t ask for no f***ing charity.” He reflected on the embarrassment he feels over the well-meaning yet misguided attempts to financially support him, urging anyone who donated to retrieve their contributions immediately.
Organizational Misunderstandings
The campaign was reportedly launched by Liya-Joelle Jones, an assistant to Rourke’s manager, Kimberly Hines. Jones previously described Rourke as being in a challenging situation and highlighted the generosity of those who wished to aid him. However, Rourke’s clear repudiation of the fundraiser raises critical questions about how personal crises are handled in the public eye.
Personal Reflections
Rourke, who sat with his dog Lucky during the video, acknowledged his past struggles, citing the impacts of COVID-19 and recent labor strikes in Hollywood as contributing factors to his financial downturn. He admitted to having mismanaged his career but expressed gratitude for what he currently has, reinforcing his determination to navigate his situation with dignity.
Context & Previous Events
Rourke has had a storied career, gaining acclaim in the 1980s with films such as “9 1/2 Weeks” and “The Wrestler,” for which he received both a BAFTA Award and an Oscar nomination. While his career has had ups and downs, recent developments—including an exit from the UK reality show “Celebrity Big Brother”—have kept him in the public eye, often under controversial circumstances.
Sky News has reached out for comments from Rourke’s manager and representatives.
