Stephen Bear has hit back at his critics who called him a bully during his time on Celebrity Big Brother.

The 26-year-old won the Channel 5 reality series, being crowned the champion during Friday’s live final, but he was met with boos on his departure and fans of the show have taken to Twitter to express their opposing views.

The day after his exit from the house, Bear has defended his actions and said: “If I am a bully, I bully you into being positive.”

Celebrity Big Brother winner Stephen Bear (Ian West/PA Wire/PA Images)

According to The Sun, the Ex on the Beach star added: “All I did was to have as much fun as possible and if anyone thought I was horrible, I’m sorry. I’m sorry if no-one had a good enough time.”

During his exit interview with CBB host Emma Willis, he was told to “shut up” by her as he repeatedly interrupted their conversation and dodged serious questions about his behaviour.

And, as claimed by The Express, Bear hit back at her line of questioning and said that she didn’t want him to win.

He was reported as saying: “I think she is angry that I won, probably.”

When asked why Emma would be angered over his win, he said: “Maybe because I was the underdog and people wanted me to succeed.”

The reality TV star from Walthamstow beat EastEnders actor Ricky Norwood, who came second, to the prestigious title after a month in the Channel 5 lock-up.

Thank you to everyone who believed in me . What a journey 🙌 pic.twitter.com/JofrgJJ7B2

— Bear (@stephen_bear) August 27, 2016

While taking part in the star-studded series, he was seen becoming incredibly intimate with fellow housemate Chloe Khan, causing complaints to media watchdog Ofcom from viewers.

Bear has also been at the centre of bullying complaints, and recent days have seen Channel 5 accused of “fixing” the show after it chose not to air some incidents involving him, including scenes of him injuring Samantha Fox’s eye during a prank.