Excitement is building for the return of Celebrity Big Brother, which is officially confirmed to be coming back to our screens in 2026. Following the recent crowning of the main series winner, attention is now turning to the next instalment featuring famous faces.
When and Where to Watch in 2026
ITV has not yet announced the official start date for Celebrity Big Brother 2026. However, industry speculation suggests it will air in the early part of the year. Looking at the pattern from the most recent series, fans can tentatively expect the show to begin sometime in April and run for just under three weeks.
There is, however, a significant broadcasting change confirmed for the upcoming series. The celebrity edition will no longer air on ITV1. Instead, it will follow the civilian version of the show and be broadcast on ITV2.
This strategic move was explained by Kevin Lygo, ITV's Managing Director of Media and Entertainment, at the Edinburgh TV Festival. He stated, "Celebrity Big Brother we're looking at... we're thinking not on the main channel." He elaborated that it is challenging to book major celebrities for the main channel, whereas ITV2 allows for more interesting and niche casting choices. Lygo confirmed the show's importance, adding, "It does really well for us on ITVX. It's a really important, crucial show... yes, it's coming back."
Rumours and Early Line-Up Odds
While official confirmations are still awaited, the rumour mill is already in full swing regarding which celebrities might enter the famous house. According to reports from Closer, Junaid Ahmed from The Only Way Is Essex and original Real Housewives of London star Amanda Cronin are both in discussions to appear.
Bookmakers have also released their early odds, providing a glimpse of potential housemates. The current favourite is Coronation Street actor Ben Price, who is given odds of 6/4. Interestingly, Ben co-hosts a podcast with last year's winner, Jack P. Shepherd.
Following his victory on The Celebrity Traitors, comedian Alan Carr has been priced at 2/1 to enter the house. Other notable names in the betting include Rebekah Vardy and former footballer Gary Lineker, both at 4/1, with boxer Tommy Fury standing at 5/1.
A Look Back at the Last Series
The previous series provided no shortage of entertainment, spanning 19 days and featuring a diverse cast including drag artist Danny Beard, singer Chesney Hawkes, and actress Patsy Palmer. The series was not without its drama, as actor Micky Rourke was removed from the house due to his behaviour.
It also became an unlikely setting for romance, with singer JoJo Siwa and former Love Island star Chris Hughes striking up a relationship after leaving the house. Ultimately, it was Coronation Street favourite Jack P. Shepherd who was crowned the winner, securing the title.
