Mickey Rourke has publicly rejected claims that he approved a GoFundMe campaign created to help him avoid eviction from his Los Angeles home. The Oscar-nominated actor addressed the situation directly on Instagram, expressing frustration and confusion over the fundraiser launched in his name. The controversy surfaced after court filings revealed that Rourke, 73, received a three-day notice to pay rent or vacate his property on December 18. According to the documents, he allegedly owes $59,100 in unpaid rent.
Fundraiser quickly gains traction online
On Sunday, a GoFundMe campaign titled “Help Mickey Rourke Stay in His Home” appeared online, setting a $100,000 target. By Tuesday, the fundraiser had reportedly collected nearly the full amount. The campaign description stated that it had been created with Rourke’s “full permission” by his longtime manager, Kimberly Hines. However, the actor strongly disputed that claim in a video message shared with fans.
Rourke addresses fans on Instagram
In the Instagram post, Rourke denied having any involvement with the fundraiser and insisted he would never ask fans or strangers for financial support. He emphasized that the campaign did not reflect his wishes and said he was unaware of how GoFundMe operates. Rourke added that he wanted any money donated by supporters to be returned. He described the situation as embarrassing and said he had not authorized anyone to solicit funds on his behalf.
Reflections on career and personal struggles
During the video, Rourke also spoke candidly about his career, admitting that he had not always managed it well. He reflected on past personal struggles and said years of therapy had helped him move away from a more volatile period in his life. The actor stressed that he is no longer the same person he was decades ago and expressed regret over choices that may have affected his professional and financial stability.
Manager responds to confusion
Speaking to The Hollywood Reporter, Hines attempted to clarify the situation, suggesting there may have been a misunderstanding. She said the fundraiser was intended to help Rourke during an urgent transition period and insisted the money was meant solely for him.
Hines confirmed that Rourke had been moved out of his Los Angeles home and temporarily placed in a West Hollywood hotel. She added that management was covering expenses related to his relocation, including movers, storage, and plans for a new apartment in Koreatown. According to Hines, Rourke initially agreed to accept help but later became uncomfortable once the fundraiser gained widespread media attention.
Details of the housing dispute
Court records show Rourke signed a lease for the three-bedroom property in March at $5,200 per month. The rent was later increased to $7,000 per month. The property owner, Eric Goldie, is reportedly seeking unpaid rent along with legal fees and damages.
Earlier this year, Rourke revealed financial difficulties stemming from the pandemic and industry strikes, saying he had borrowed heavily to stay afloat. As the situation unfolds, Rourke maintains that he did not approve the fundraiser and wants clarity and resolution without public donations.
