Contestants on the latest series of Big Brother employed a cunning and previously secret tactic to try and prevent their private conversations from being broadcast on ITV, a former housemate has revealed.
The Secret Code Word
In a surprising confession, ex-housemate Zelah disclosed that the group would repeatedly say 'Davina McCall' when they wanted to discuss something they didn't want the show's editors to include in the final episodes.
Zelah explained the logic behind the bizarre code during an appearance on Lyndsey and Louise's Truth or Dare series on TikTok. He stated that the housemates believed that mentioning the former Channel 4 presenter, or rival channels like Channel 4 and Channel 5, would make ITV producers reluctant to air the footage.
The method was reportedly used during sensitive discussions, such as those concerning substance abuse or private family matters.
Did the Trick Actually Work?
Despite their clever thinking, the ploy was not always successful. Zelah admitted that the housemates were told off for using the technique and confessed, "I have seen conversations that I Davina McCalled and they've been aired. They obviously just edited it out."
This suggests that while the producers were aware of the tactic, they still held the ultimate power in the editing suite. The revelation has sparked discussion among fans on platforms like Reddit, with some noting that past contestants used different methods, such as singing Disney songs, for the same purpose.
The Series Context
This insider secret comes just after the conclusion of the popular reality show's latest run. The series wrapped up this week after 48 days of constant surveillance, with contestant Richard being crowned the winner and taking home the massive £100,000 prize.
The show, now streaming on ITVX, condenses a full day's worth of footage from the 16 housemates into an hour-long programme, meaning editors have to be selective, though they rarely miss the most dramatic moments.
