Former Big Brother host George Lamb has spoken out about the profound psychological damage he suffered during his time presenting the iconic reality show, revealing how the experience left his personal life 'in tatters' and required secret professional support throughout his tenure.
The Hidden Aftermath of Reality Television
In a startling revelation, Lamb detailed how ITV provided him with regular meetings with lawyers and mental health nurses behind the scenes, a carefully concealed support system that viewers never witnessed during the show's broadcast. The former presenter described feeling 'rotten inside' as he navigated the intense pressure and scrutiny that came with hosting one of television's most controversial programmes.
When the Cameras Stopped Rolling
The glamour of prime-time television masked a much darker reality for Lamb, who confessed that the role took an enormous toll on his wellbeing. 'It sinks its claws into you,' he explained, describing how the show's environment and the use of offensive language that ultimately led to his departure created a perfect storm of psychological distress.
His candid account sheds new light on the hidden costs of reality television, not just for contestants but for those fronting the programmes. The secret meetings with legal and medical professionals underscore the serious concerns ITV had about the welfare of their presenting staff during what Lamb describes as one of the most challenging periods of his career.
The Breaking Point
Lamb's departure from the show followed controversies surrounding language used on air, but his revelations suggest the issues ran much deeper than what viewers saw on screen. The psychological support system put in place by ITV indicates the broadcaster's awareness of the potential damage such high-pressure environments could inflict on their talent.
This insider perspective adds to growing concerns about mental health in the entertainment industry, particularly within the high-stakes world of reality television where presenters must navigate complex interpersonal dynamics while maintaining professional composure under intense public scrutiny.
