Outrage over footage of David Bowie's ex-wife being told of death

Angie Bowie on Celebrity Big Brother. Photo/YouTube

Viewers have been left shocked and there may be an investigation after a British TV channel aired footage of David Bowie's ex-wife breaking down over news of his death.

Angie Bowie, a contestant on the reality show Celebrity Big Brother, chose to remain in the house after being informed her ex-husband had died.

The 66-year-old former model and actress was taken aside and informed off-camera of the music legend's passing on Sunday at the age of 69.

But footage has since been released by Channel 5 showing Angie discussing Bowie's death on camera before breaking down in tears.

"I haven't seen him in so many years I can't make a big drama about it ... but I feel an era has ended, it's so very sad ... The Stardust is gone," she says, before burying her face in her hands.

The Daily Mail reported the network may face an Ofcom investigation after complaints were laid when the scene aired at the end of Celebrity Big Brother's most recent episode.

Viewers also showed outrage on Twitter.

Using the footage of Angie Bowie finding out about David's death is absolutely disgusting move from big brother

— Fin (@Finlaybald) January 12, 2016

So much for Big Brother saying they would tell Angie Bowie the news off cam. Showing footage of her reaction in advert so vile @channel5_tv

— Jane E Davies (@UpstartThunder) January 11, 2016

After being given the tragic news, Angie decided to stay on the reality TV show but was offered support if she requests it.

A statement released from broadcaster Channel 5 read: "Following the very sad news of David Bowie's death, we can now confirm that Angie Bowie has been informed off camera by her representatives. She has taken the decision to continue in the programme.

"The decision to remain in the house is entirely her choice, and she has been given the option to leave at any time if she changes her mind. Appropriate support will be available to Angie at any time if needed."

Angie first met Starman singer David - real name David Jones - in London in 1969 when she was 19. The couple married one year later in March, 1970 in London.

They remained married until February 1980 when they were granted a divorce in Switzerland. They had one child together, now 44-year-old filmmaker Duncan Jones.

Angie went on to have a long-term relationship with punk musician Drew Blood and they had daughter Stacia together.

David got married again, tying the knot with supermodel Iman in April 1992 and they had a daughter, 15-year-old Alexandria Zahra Jones, together.

David and Iman remained happily married until his passing at the weekend.

- Bang! Showbiz with agencies