The future of Big Brother's presenting line-up is in doubt, with reports suggesting host AJ Odudu could be poised to quit the iconic reality show. The uncertainty stems from ITV's decision to rest the celebrity version of the programme for an extended period.
Hosts' Contracts Left in Limbo
According to a report in The Sun, both Odudu, 37, and her co-host Will Best, 40, are in a "tricky position" as their contracts for the civilian Big Brother later this year have not been confirmed. A television source explained that the presenters typically plan their other work around the show, but this has become "incredibly difficult" with so much uncertainty.
"AJ, in particular, will have plenty of offers and usually makes decisions on taking other jobs based on recording dates for BB, as it's her biggest gig and commitment," the insider stated. The situation is compounded by the news that Celebrity Big Brother will not return until at least 2027, a move attributed to ongoing difficulties in securing high-profile housemates.
The Future of Celebrity Big Brother in Question
The most recent celebrity series aired in April last year, culminating in a win for Coronation Street star Jack P Shepherd. Despite featuring names like singer JoJo Siwa and former X Factor judge Sharon Osbourne, the show is thought to have struggled with viewer numbers. Plans for its return have been repeatedly pushed back.
Initially, ITV announced the programme would shift from ITV1 to ITV2, but this failed to resolve casting issues. Executives have now confirmed it will not air in its usual March/April slot and is instead scheduled for late 2026 at the earliest. This lengthy hiatus has fuelled speculation about the format's long-term viability on the channel.
Broader Implications for ITV's Reality Slate
The potential departure of a host represents more than just a casting change. An insider noted that losing a presenter would be a "substantial cost saving" for ITV, and historically the main show has had only one host. Furthermore, the duo of Odudu and Best were introduced as a pair in 2023, raising questions about whether one would continue without the other.
This development follows other cost-cutting and restructuring moves by ITV in its reality TV portfolio. The channel previously axed the Big Brother's Late & Live spin-off just two years after launch due to poor audience figures. In a parallel move, Dancing on Ice was "rested" in March 2025 with no current plans for a new series, as ratings declined against rising production costs.
An ITV spokesman responded to the speculation, stating: "We are committed to both Celebrity Big Brother and Big Brother beyond 2025, and scheduling for any new series will be confirmed in due course. The show remains a priority reality format for us having recently hit 150 million streams on ITVX." Daily Mail has contacted representatives for AJ Odudu for further comment.
