Big Brother's Surprising Legacy: Where Are They Now?
Two decades after it first captivated Australian audiences, Big Brother has made a dramatic return to its original home on Channel 10. The iconic reality show, which originally premiered in 2001, launched the careers of numerous contestants who have since embarked on remarkably different paths. From circus performers to millionaire entrepreneurs, the lives of these former housemates have taken unexpected turns since their time in the famous Dreamworld compound.
From Reality TV to Remarkable Careers
One of the most dramatic transformations belongs to Rima Hadchiti, whose 2008 stint on the show lasted just six days after she broke her leg during a Friday Night Games challenge. The former professional belly dancer has reinvented herself as a circus performer with the world-renowned Cirque du Soleil troupe, joining the company in 2016.
Meanwhile, Blair McDonough, who came second in the very first season, successfully transitioned into acting. Shortly after the show, the 44-year-old landed a lucrative role on Neighbours until 2006, followed by period drama Heartbeat in the UK. He returned to Australia for roles in Sea Patrol and Winners and Losers. On the personal front, McDonough married Kristi Townley in 2013 and they now have two children.
The show's first season also introduced Australia to Sara Marie Fedele, then 22, who became famous for her 'bum dance' and bunny ears. Now 47, she leads a simpler life as a mother to a 10-year-old daughter while running her own sleepwear line, writing a book, and even releasing a pop single called I'm So Excited (The Bum Dance).
Triumphs and Challenges Beyond the House
Not all former contestants have enjoyed smooth sailing since their television fame. Reggie Bird (now Sorensen), who made history as the first female winner in 2003, has faced significant health challenges. The single mother was declared legally blind in 2012 due to retinitis pigmentosa and stage two Usher Syndrome, conditions that cause severe vision impairment and hearing loss. Despite these challenges, she returned to Big Brother in 2022 and most recently appeared on I'm A Celebrity... Get Me Out Of Here! Australia.
In contrast, Greg Mathew from the famous Logan Twins of 2005 has built a remarkable business empire. After winning $836,000 on the show, he has become a multi-millionaire worth an estimated $10 million through investments in hotels, nightclubs and properties in Newcastle.
Trevor Butler, who won the 2004 season and famously proposed to his girlfriend Breea Forest with his $1 million prize money, has maintained his media presence. He currently hosts the 1029 Hot Tomato radio show alongside Moyra Major and returned to the Big Brother house in 2022.
The show's revival this month marks its return to the original Dreamworld location, coming after Channel Seven axed its reboot last year. As a new generation discovers the reality phenomenon, these original stars continue to write their extraordinary post-show stories.
