The highly anticipated Celebrity Big Brother 2025 has officially kicked off on ITV1 and ITVX, bringing an exciting new line-up of stars into the iconic house.
This year’s cast blends reality favourites, television legends, and international icons, promising a season full of drama, laughter, and unexpected moments.
From emotional stories to fierce personalities, each contestant adds something unique to the show. Here’s everything you need to know about the confirmed housemates entering the Big Brother spotlight.
What is the Celebrity Big Brother?
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Big Brother is one of the most iconic reality television franchises in the world. First airing in the Netherlands in 1999, it quickly became a global phenomenon, with various versions running across the United States, UK, and beyond.
In the UK, the show began in 2000 and has undergone several transformations, switching broadcasters and even formats over the years.
The concept of Big Brother is simple yet deeply engaging. A group of strangers, referred to as housemates, live together in a specially constructed house.
They’re completely isolated from the outside world, under continuous video surveillance. Each week, contestants nominate each other for eviction, and the public ultimately decides who stays and who goes.
In recent years, the show has adopted a more celebrity-focused approach with Celebrity Big Brother (CBB), where known personalities from the entertainment, sports, and political worlds enter the house.
The format brings a mix of drama, humour, emotional moments, and plenty of unexpected twists. The blend of public voting, psychological endurance, and social dynamics creates a compelling narrative that keeps fans watching closely each night.
What Makes Celebrity Big Brother Different from the Regular Series?
While the traditional Big Brother focuses on ordinary people living in the house, Celebrity Big Brother (CBB) elevates the concept by bringing in public figures, artists, sports stars, politicians, and other well-known personalities.
This adds a layer of intrigue as audiences get to see celebrities in an unfiltered, unscripted environment.
Key differences include:
Housemate Selection
- Regular series: Everyday people audition and go through multiple stages before selection.
- CBB: Public figures are carefully curated, often to spark drama or fan excitement.
Duration
- CBB usually runs for a shorter period, often around three weeks, compared to the traditional 6-8 week format of the civilian edition.
Payouts and Fees
- Celebrity contestants often receive a negotiated appearance fee, which can range significantly depending on their fame.
Public Interest
- Celebrity Big Brother attracts a wider demographic and receives extensive media coverage due to the popularity and familiarity of the housemates.
With well-known contestants, the stakes are higher, interactions are more scrutinised, and alliances or feuds often spill into tabloids and social media, driving even more interest.
What Channel is Big Brother 2025 Airing On in the UK?
Celebrity Big Brother 2025 is airing on ITV1 and ITVX, marking its second series since returning to the ITV network.
This strategic move has boosted the show’s visibility, with nightly highlights and episodes capturing millions of viewers across the UK.
Viewing Details
- Main Channel: ITV1
- Streaming: ITVX app (catch-up and live options available)
The transition to ITV has brought higher production value, increased social media engagement, and a broader viewing base. ITV’s investment into reviving Big Brother reflects the show’s long-standing popularity in the UK reality television space.
With an exciting lineup this year and creative twists already making headlines, fans have quickly tuned in to see their favourite personalities navigate the CBB house under one roof.
What is the Theme of Big Brother 2025?
The 2025 edition of Celebrity Big Brother has taken a more introspective and redemptive tone, centred around “Reinvention and Realness”.
It explores how public figures portray themselves, how they are perceived, and how the house forces them to confront both public scrutiny and personal truths.
Central Elements of This Year’s Theme
- Stripping away personas: Contestants are encouraged to reveal their authentic selves.
- Surprise tasks designed to push emotional and social limits.
- Reputation reset: Some celebrities are using the platform to rebuild or refresh their public image.
With the inclusion of public figures like politicians, musicians, athletes, and actors, the house has become a space of raw interaction, deeply personal revelations, and emotional resilience.
What Are the Key Highlights of This Season’s Launch?
The launch night for CBB 2025 was met with huge excitement and social media buzz. ITV’s careful curation of high-profile and contrasting personalities made for a memorable start.
Launch Night Moments
- Chesney Hawkes was the first to enter, completing a quirky introduction task.
- JoJo Siwa, a fan-favourite, brought international flair to the show.
- Trisha Goddard opened up about her health journey, creating an emotional moment that resonated with viewers.
- Former MP Michael Fabricant added political drama right off the bat.
Tasks began immediately, with housemates having to bond over awkward icebreakers and competitive games. It became clear early on who might clash, who could connect, and who’s in it for the long haul.
Viewers were especially drawn to the diversity of backgrounds, age groups, and life experiences that created an unpredictable dynamic from the get-go.
Big Brother Contestants 2025
The 2025 lineup includes a diverse mix of entertainers, athletes, and public figures. Here’s the confirmed full list of housemates:
Full List of Celebrity Big Brother 2025 Contestants
- Chesney Hawkes – Singer
- JoJo Siwa – American singer and dancer
- Trisha Goddard – TV presenter
- Chris Hughes – Reality TV star
- Patsy Palmer – Actress and DJ
- Michael Fabricant – Politician
- Jack P. Shepherd – Actor
- Ella Rae Wise – Reality star
- Mickey Rourke – Former boxer and actor
- Daley Thompson – Olympic athlete
- Donna Preston – Actress and comedian
- Danny Beard – Drag performer and singer
- Angellica Bell – TV presenter
These housemates represent a wide spectrum of careers and personalities, adding depth and unpredictability to this year’s CBB edition.
What Celebrities Are in the Big Brother 2025 House?
Each confirmed housemate in Celebrity Big Brother 2025 brings something unique to the table, whether it’s past TV experience, fame, emotional stories, or pure entertainment value. Here’s a full breakdown of the personalities currently living under the Big Brother roof.
1. Chris Hughes – Most Likely to Win
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- Age: 27
- Occupation: Reality TV Star, Sports Presenter
- Famous For: Love Island (2017)
- Instagram: @chrishughesofficial
Chris entered the house with confidence and a natural charm that immediately caught viewers’ attention. Since his Love Island days, he’s transitioned into sports presenting and remains a fan favourite for his charisma and emotional openness. Currently, he’s the top contender to win.
2. Danny Beard – Potential Finalist
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- Age: 32
- Occupation: Drag Performer, Singer
- Famous For: Winner of RuPaul’s Drag Race UK Season 4
- Instagram: @thedannybeard
Danny’s larger-than-life personality, sharp humour, and commanding stage presence have already made a mark. With a successful track record in competition-based reality shows, Danny is definitely a finalist to watch.
3. JoJo Siwa – High Popularity
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- Age: 21
- Occupation: Singer, Dancer, Media Personality
- Famous For: Dance Moms, Nickelodeon Shows
- Instagram: @itsjojosiwa
JoJo brings global recognition and a massive fanbase into the house. Known for her vibrant personality and advocacy for the LGBTQ+ community, JoJo’s presence is a major international highlight in this season’s cast.
4. Trisha Goddard – The Voice of Wisdom
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- Age: 67
- Occupation: TV Presenter
- Famous For: Trisha (Talk Show)
- Instagram: @therealtrishagoddard
Trisha entered the house with grace and purpose, openly discussing her journey of living with stage 4 cancer. Her emotional depth and thoughtful presence bring a mature and grounding perspective to the game.
5. Michael Fabricant – First Eviction
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- Age: 74
- Occupation: Politician
- Famous For: Former Conservative MP for Lichfield
- Instagram: @mike_fabricant
Michael’s stay in the house was brief but eventful. Known for his outspoken views, he stirred political discussions early on but was ultimately the first to be evicted, possibly due to limited viewer connection.
6. Ella Rae Wise – Drama Diffuser
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- Age: 24
- Occupation: Reality TV Star
- Famous For: The Only Way Is Essex (TOWIE)
- Instagram: @ellaraewisex
Ella has taken a calm and controlled approach to life in the house. She’s promised to steer clear of drama and act as a peacemaker. Whether this tactic helps her reach the final remains to be seen.
7. Patsy Palmer – Spiritual Vibes
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- Age: 52
- Occupation: Actress, DJ
- Famous For: Bianca Jackson on EastEnders
- Instagram: @patsypalmerofficial
Now based in Los Angeles and deeply into spirituality, Patsy brings both experience and introspection to the show. Her calm aura contrasts sharply with more outspoken housemates, offering viewers a deeper, reflective character.
8. Mickey Rourke – Hollywood Edge
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- Age: 72
- Occupation: Actor, Former Boxer
- Famous For: The Wrestler, Sin City, Iron Man 2
- Instagram: @mickey_rourke_
Mickey’s presence in the house has added international star power. With a colourful past in Hollywood and boxing, his candid, no-nonsense personality is stirring intrigue and anticipation for drama.
9. Daley Thompson – Athletic Honour
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- Age: 66
- Occupation: Olympic Athlete
- Famous For: Gold Medals in Decathlon (1980, 1984)
- Instagram: @daley_thompson_cbe
Daley is a British sports legend with a reputation for resilience and competitive spirit. His disciplined mindset and charming confidence have already earned him respect from housemates and viewers alike.
10. Angellica Bell – CBBC Favourite
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- Age: 32
- Occupation: TV Presenter
- Famous For: CBBC, The One Show
- Instagram: @angellicabell
A familiar face for millennials who grew up watching CBBC, Angellica is warm, articulate, and likeable. Her ability to balance friendliness with strategy may become a key advantage as the show progresses.
11. Donna Preston – Quirky Comic Relief
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- Age: 38
- Occupation: Actress, Comedian
- Famous For: The Sandman, Michael McIntyre’s Big Show
- Instagram: @thedonnapreston
Donna brings laughter and wit into the house. Known for her quick comebacks and creative energy, she provides light moments and may surprise many with how far she goes.
12. Jack P. Shepherd – Soap Star Veteran
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- Age: 37
- Occupation: Actor
- Famous For: David Platt on Coronation Street
- Instagram: @jackpshepherd88
With over two decades on Coronation Street, Jack has a loyal fanbase. Though he expressed doubts about his longevity in the house, his honesty and humour have quickly made him a relatable favourite.
13. Chesney Hawkes – Nostalgia King
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- Age: 53
- Occupation: Singer
- Famous For: Hit Song “The One and Only”
- Instagram: @chesneyhawkesofficial
As the first confirmed housemate, Chesney embraced his nostalgic fame from the moment he walked in. With his easygoing nature and musical roots, he’s added a fun, feel-good energy to the house dynamics.
What Are the Contestants Being Paid for Big Brother 2025?
While exact figures aren’t public, several reports from reputable entertainment news sources have shed light on the estimated payouts for CBB 2025 participants.
Estimated Payout Tiers
- High Tier: JoJo Siwa, Mickey Rourke (Reported six-figure sums)
- Mid Tier: Chris Hughes, Danny Beard, Trisha Goddard
- Lower Tier: Ella Rae Wise, Jack P. Shepherd, Donna Preston
Factors that influence appearance fees:
- Current popularity
- Previous reality TV experience
- International fame
- Negotiated exclusivity and risk level
In addition to base fees, contestants may earn bonuses based on longevity in the house or specific challenges.
What Has Been the Public Reaction to This Year’s Line-up?
The general consensus across social media and TV forums has been largely positive. Viewers have praised the diversity in the cast and the inclusion of both nostalgic and contemporary figures.
Highlights of Fan Reactions
- Excitement over JoJo Siwa’s participation
- Nostalgia for 90s figures like Chesney Hawkes and Trisha Goddard
- Surprise at Michael Fabricant’s brief stint in the house
- Support pouring in for Chris Hughes and Danny Beard
The blend of old-school stars and Gen Z favourites has created cross-generational appeal, bringing different types of fans together for discussions, polls, and memes.
What Controversies or Drama Have Emerged So Far?
Every CBB season comes with its share of controversies, and 2025 is no different.
Notable Tensions
- Political tension: Michael Fabricant’s views stirred some heated house discussions before his eviction.
- Clashes of opinion between strong personalities, particularly involving Mickey Rourke and Patsy Palmer.
- Emotional moments: Trisha Goddard’s health reveal and Chris Hughes discussing personal growth sparked heartfelt viewer reactions.
So far, the drama has been more emotional than explosive, but with more episodes to come, the tension is expected to rise.
What Can Viewers Expect in the Coming Episodes?
Viewers can expect:
- Deeper alliances forming and more calculated gameplay.
- Emotional backstories coming to light through confessional moments.
- New twists and secret tasks from Big Brother to stir the pot.
As more housemates face eviction and stakes rise, fans can expect more surprises, heartfelt confessions, and possibly a few explosive rows.
Conclusion
Celebrity Big Brother 2025 is proving to be one of the most engaging seasons yet. With a balanced mix of heart, humour, controversy and camaraderie, this year’s lineup has captivated a wide UK audience.
Whether you’re tuning in for the drama, nostalgia, or simply to support your favourite star, this season promises plenty more to come.
As Chris Hughes leads the pack, all eyes are on how the weeks ahead unfold. Will public opinion shift? Will alliances form or break? And who will take the final victory?
FAQs
Who is the most likely to win Celebrity Big Brother 2025?
Chris Hughes is currently the favourite to win, thanks to his reality TV background and fan popularity.
How long is the Celebrity Big Brother 2025 season?
This season is expected to last around three weeks, typical for CBB editions.
Why did Michael Fabricant leave the Big Brother house early?
Michael Fabricant was the first to be evicted after failing to connect with viewers and fellow housemates.
Is JoJo Siwa the first American contestant on CBB UK?
No, but she is among the youngest and most internationally famous to join in recent years.
What is the prize for winning Celebrity Big Brother 2025?
There is no public cash prize; most celebrities participate for charity donations or profile boosts.
How are the Big Brother eviction votes decided?
Eviction votes are determined by a public vote after housemate nominations.
Can viewers watch Celebrity Big Brother 2025 online?
Yes, episodes are streamed and available for catch-up on ITVX.
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