Mickey Rourke has publicly condemned a GoFundMe fundraiser that was set up without his consent, urging fans to seek refunds for nearly $90,000 still held in the account. The actor took to Instagram on January 15 to confront the situation after reports emerged that he faced eviction following a lawsuit by his landlord.
In a series of posts, Rourke expressed his anger toward the individuals who initiated the fundraiser, describing it as a
“vicious cruel godamm lie to hustle money”
using his name. He warned that there would be severe consequences for those involved, emphasizing his frustration and disappointment in the misuse of his identity.
Fundraiser Created by Manager Sparks Controversy
The GoFundMe was launched by Kimberly Hines, Rourke’s manager for over ten years, along with her assistant, purportedly to help the actor remain in his home. However, Rourke repeatedly stated he had no involvement in the campaign and called the entire situation humiliating. He insisted he would
“never ask strangers or fans or anybody for a nickel.”
Hines defended the fundraiser, telling The Hollywood Reporter that it was not intended as a scam, and claimed Rourke was aware of the fundraiser’s existence. She acknowledged that the actor might not have fully grasped the concept of GoFundMe when it was first proposed.
After Rourke’s public rejection of the campaign, Hines promised donors would receive refunds if the actor did not wish to accept the money. She claimed,
“He’s calling me for money. He’s calling friends for money,”
and expressed confusion over his refusal.
“A GoFund is set up for him, and now he’s rejecting it? ‘OK, Mick, no problem.’ But nobody here has done anything wrong,”
she said.
Rourke Calls for Donors to Retrieve Their Contributions
In one of his posts, Rourke revealed that over $100,000 had been raised by “CONCERNED STRANGERS,” but approximately $90,000 still needed to be returned. He insisted that the person responsible for the fundraiser should not receive any funds, urging supporters to claim their money back.
Despite the ongoing financial dispute, Rourke’s primary concern remains with his friend Eric Dane, the actor who disclosed an ALS diagnosis last year. Rourke took time in his posts to send well wishes to Dane, showing support during a difficult period.
Implications and What to Expect Next
This public fallout over the Mickey Rourke GoFundMe refund highlights tensions between the actor and his management, raising questions about consent and transparency in crowdfunding campaigns. With attorneys reportedly involved in securing the return of funds, donors are advised to follow up on refunds actively. The situation underscores the potential complications celebrities face when personal financial difficulties become public and unauthorized fundraising efforts arise.
