In 2024, ITV attempted to revitalize the seemingly defunct format of Celebrity Big Brother, aiming to breathe new life into a show that has always struggled with its reputation. Despite high hopes for dramatic twists and glamorous celebrities, the result fell flat. The 2024 season was marked by predictable interactions, lackluster contestants, and moments that failed to captivate audiences. With the 2025 reboot, the stakes were set even lower, as the latest lineup appeared uninspired, featuring personalities whose presence barely stirred excitement. The challenges designed to entertain seemed contrived and repetitive, further dampening any potential enthusiasm.
When ITV decided to bring back Celebrity Big Brother in 2024, expectations were high for a fresh take on a classic reality format. However, the actual delivery was underwhelming. The previous year featured a series of unremarkable events, such as endless bickering between Louis Walsh and Sharon Osbourne, awkward refusals from Love Island’s Ekin-Su to discuss her past, and quick eliminations like Gary, Kate Middleton’s uncle. Social media buzz around Walsh’s former protégés Jedward critiquing the show provided one of the few highlights.
This year, despite a vibrant makeover to the Big Brother house, the contestant list lacked sparkle. Chesney Hawkes reminisced about primary school with Tricia Goddard, while Chris Hughes focused more on bathroom needs than engaging conversation. Michael Fabricant’s flamboyant style quickly grew tiresome, continuing a curious trend of placing former Tory MPs on reality TV. Challenges labeled as part of Big Brother’s "secret game show" added little value, relying heavily on outdated catchphrases.
The introduction of Mickey Rourke, an Oscar nominee, was supposed to be the pinnacle moment. Yet, his apparent confusion about the show's mechanics and awkward interactions left viewers feeling uneasy rather than entertained. As the group awkwardly danced through a conga line, trying to earn points for prizes, the atmosphere felt far from festive. It became evident that many participants might have preferred alternative engagements, signaling a potential end for this version of the show.
Despite the glossy paint job and some big-name inclusions, ITV's reboot of Celebrity Big Brother remains mired in mediocrity. The show's inability to innovate or provide genuine entertainment suggests that perhaps it is time to reconsider its future. For now, the spectacle continues, but with diminishing returns and increasing skepticism from both participants and viewers alike.