‘big brother’
contestant drops r-word on live feed
Published July 15, 2025 7:11 PM PDT
Play video content
CBS
Another “Big Brother” controversy is brewing, as a current houseguest is under fire for using an offensive slur during a late-night conversation caught on the show’s live feed.
Isaiah “Zae” Frederich shocked fans while playing chess with fellow contestant Keanu Soto, when he suddenly blurted out, “Oh s**t. I’m a f***ing r****d.” Realizing what he said, Zae quickly backtracked, adding, “Damn, I shouldn’t say that word.”
Keanu replied, “No, you shouldn’t,” then followed up by wondering aloud if the live feed was even running at the time — not realizing Big Brother’s fanbase was watching the moment in real time.
Zae responded, “That’s one of the ones I was working on not saying,” before the pair laughed it off. Keanu added, “I think you’re good … you’re lucky it’s late.”
The incident drew backlash online, with many comparing it to a similar controversy from 2023, when contestant Luke Valentine was canned from the house after using the N-word on camera.
At the time, CBS said, “Luke violated the Big Brother code of conduct and there is zero tolerance in the house for using a racial slur. He has been removed from the house.”
We reached out to CBS for comment … so far, no word back on if Zae’s remark will get him to face disciplinary action.
GIPHY App Key not set. Please check settings