Big Brother Going Back on Air in the U.K.

 LONDON: Channel 5 has firmed up the exclusive British rights to Endemol’s Big Brother in a two-year deal. 

This installment of Big Brother will feature an all-star celebrity version this summer, followed by a new season with members of the public. The series will be filmed in its original Elstree Film Studios home, produced by Endemol UK’s Initial.

Jeff Ford, Channel 5’s director of programs, commented: “We’re hugely excited to have secured the return of Big Brother for Channel 5 which will form a key part of this year’s schedule. The series has previously captivated a decade of television viewers and we aim to bring, Channel 5’s energy, optimism and vibrancy to the series.”

Tim Hincks, the CEO of Endemol UK, added: “Big Brother has a passionate and loyal fan base in the U.K. and I’m delighted it has found a new home on Channel 5. Ten years on it’s as potent and cutting edge as ever and it’s still one of the only truly multiplatform entertainment brands.”

Steve Gowans, Channel 5’s head of factual entertainment, will oversee the new series of Big Brother. At Initial, the series will be overseen by Nick Samwell-Smith, creative director, and Laurence Jones, managing director.