50 Facts About Big Brother

Origin and Evolution of Big Brother

Big Brother has been a staple of reality TV for over two decades. Let's dive into its origins and how it has evolved over the years.

1. Origin of the Show: Big Brother is based on a Dutch reality show of the same name, which was first adapted by CBS in the early 2000s. The show's format has undergone significant changes since its inception, evolving into the modern competition we know today.

2. Format Evolution: The first season of Big Brother was a critical and commercial failure, but after a miraculous renewal, the show was redesigned to take on the modern format still used today. This includes the Head of Household (HOH) competition and the Power of Veto (POV) power.

3. Competition Structure: In each season, a group of 12 to 18 contestants called "houseguests" are placed in a house entirely cut off from the outside world. The houseguests compete to win the $750,000 cash prize, which was increased from $500,000 in season 23. Each week, one houseguest wins safety and the power to nominate two other houseguests for eviction by winning the coveted HOH competition. The remaining houseguests then vote between the two nominees, and one houseguest is eliminated each week.

Life Inside the Big Brother House

Living in the Big Brother house is a unique experience. Here's a look at what life is like for the houseguests.

4. 24/7 Live Stream: Big Brother is monitored at all times through a 24/7 live stream that viewers can tune into at any time. This live feed provides a real-time look into the lives of the houseguests, showcasing their interactions, strategies, and personal struggles.

5. Camera and Microphone Setup: There are almost 100 cameras watching every houseguest, including a few cameras in the bathroom. Additionally, there are 110 microphones picking up what the contestants are doing and saying at all times, ensuring no privacy in the Big Brother house.

6. House Design: The Big Brother house is designed to be a self-sufficient environment. It includes a kitchen, living room, bedrooms, and bathrooms. The house is also equipped with cameras and microphones to capture every moment of the contestants' lives.

Casting and Preparation

Getting on Big Brother is no easy feat. Here's what potential contestants go through before stepping into the house.

7. Casting Process: The casting process for Big Brother is an arduous one, lasting more than a week. Potential contestants undergo psychological evaluations, IQ tests, and in-person interviews before being selected for the show. They also have to sign an extensive contract that gives producers the right to portray them, their story, and their image in any way they see fit.

8. Psychological Evaluation: Before being seriously considered for the show, contestants must undergo a psychological evaluation and an IQ test. This helps the producers select contestants who are mentally stable and capable of handling the pressures of the show.

9. STD Testing: To protect contestants from spreading sexually transmitted diseases in the house, everyone is tested beforehand. Although the show's producers don't encourage sexual relationships between houseguests, they know it happens from time to time.

10. Contractual Obligations: Every contestant on the show signs a contract that specifies the rules and regulations of the show. The contract also includes releases for medical information and documents that family members sign. This contract is extensive, consisting of 36 pages that cover various aspects of the show.

Rules and Restrictions

Life in the Big Brother house comes with a strict set of rules. Here are some of the key restrictions houseguests must follow.

11. Isolation from the Outside World: Houseguests must remain completely sequestered while filming, which means they are prohibited from being in contact with friends or family. They also cannot use their phones, email, or access the internet during their stay in the house.

12. Grocery Shopping: Since houseguests are not allowed to leave the house, production organizes the house's groceries to be delivered each week. This practice continues in season 22, with the additional step of the groceries being disinfected for the houseguests.

13. Slop as Punishment: One punishment houseguests can receive is being forced to eat slop after losing a competition. Slop is an oatmeal-like food that first appeared in season 7 and has continued to be a staple on the show.

14. Whispering Rule: Houseguests are forbidden from whispering while filming in the house because it's hard to capture this audio on microphones. This rule is often difficult to enforce, but it adds to the show's unique dynamics.

15. Interaction with Producers: During a normal season, producers have limited access to the houseguests and are only allowed to speak to one another in the Diary Room. For season 22, producers are taking extra precautions to ensure that houseguests do not interact with them directly, maintaining the illusion of isolation.

16. COVID-19 Precautions: To ensure houseguests are free from COVID-19, they are required to take regular tests. This measure was implemented during the COVID-19 pandemic to protect both the contestants and the production team.

Unique Aspects and Trivia

Big Brother is full of interesting quirks and trivia. Here are some lesser-known facts about the show.

17. Searches and Prohibited Items: According to the show's contract, there's a list of approved items each houseguest can bring into the house. Any prohibited items are confiscated by production before contestants even step foot inside the house.

18. Celebrity Big Brother Spin-Off: Big Brother also has a "Celebrity Big Brother" spin-off in the US and UK. This version features well-known celebrities competing in the same format as the regular show, but with a shorter duration.

19. Longest Competition: The longest competition in Big Brother history lasted for more than half a day. This intense competition pushed the contestants to their limits, showcasing their endurance and strategic thinking.

20. Bathroom Cameras: There are cameras in the bathroom, providing a unique perspective on the contestants' personal lives. This level of surveillance ensures that every moment is captured, adding to the show's realism.

21. Squirrels as Jokes: Squirrels are inside jokes from production. If you've ever spotted a random fake squirrel in a Big Brother competition, that's Benny. Keep an eye out for him in the future.

22. Season One Differences: Season one was basically a completely different show. There wasn't a Head of Household or a Power of Veto, and the evicted houseguest was chosen by viewers' votes. Good thing CBS changed it up since then—the show has now been going strong for 22 seasons.

Memorable Moments and Milestones

Big Brother has had its share of memorable moments and milestones. Here are some highlights from the show's history.

23. Unanimous Votes: Only two winners have ever won with a unanimous vote from the jury. The most recent winner, Cody Calafiore, won the competition with a unanimous nine-to-zero vote from the jury. The only other champion to win with a unanimous vote was season-10 winner Dan Gheesling.

24. Successful Marriages: Big Brother has produced more successful marriages than The Bachelor. Host Julie Chen bragged about this stat to Entertainment Tonight in 2018, and she's right. Only season-17 Bachelor Sean Lowe married his winner—meanwhile, five Big Brother couples have already gotten married, and another is currently engaged.

25. References to 1984: The show's name comes from George Orwell’s book "1984," where Big Brother watches over citizens at all times via telescreens. The show also has a stuffed animal owl named Orwell after the author, who even has his own Twitter account.

26. Houseguest Payment: While the exact amount is not publicly disclosed, contestants are paid for their participation in the show. The contract specifies the payment terms, which can vary from season to season.

27. Extreme News Cases: Houseguests are cut off from all news while in the house, except in extreme cases. During season-two production told the houseguests about the 9/11 terror attacks since houseguest Monica Bailey’s cousin was listed as one of the missing World Trade Center workers. During the online season "Big Brother Over the Top," the houseguests were informed of Donald Trump's presidential victory.

Controversies and Conversations

Big Brother has not been without its controversies. Here are some of the most notable issues the show has faced.

28. Controversies and Conversations: Big Brother has a long and controversial record regarding how it handles racism within the house. The first major breaking point came with the post-eviction confrontation between the show’s host, Julie Chen Moonves, and season-15 contestant Aaryn Gries over a string of racist remarks she made while in the Big Brother House. The controversy spurred a greater conversation around the role race played in the game, which again came to a head during a powerful eviction speech from season-22 contestant Da’Vonne Rogers, who called out the uphill battle Black contestants face when playing against majority white casts. Just one month after the season-22 finale, CBS announced that future Survivor and Big Brother seasons would be required to have casts made up of 50% people of color.

29. LGBTQ+ Representation: Big Brother has continued to embrace conversations about LGBTQ+ identity in subsequent seasons. The show's first openly gay contestant was Bunky Miller, who weighed the danger of revealing his sexuality to other houseguests for fear of being targeted as a result. As public opinion on gay marriage shifted over the last few decades, subsequent seasons saw numerous gay contestants face less prejudice in the house. Andy Herren became the first openly gay winner in season-15, and Audrey Middleton became the show’s first transgender houseguest in season-17.

30. Racism in the House: The show has also been criticized for its handling of racism within the house. The controversy surrounding Aaryn Gries' racist remarks highlighted the need for greater diversity and inclusivity in future seasons. This led to a requirement that future Survivor and Big Brother seasons have casts made up of 50% people of color.

Key Figures in Big Brother

Certain individuals have played pivotal roles in the success and direction of Big Brother. Here are some key figures you should know about.

31. Host Julie Chen Moonves: Host Julie Chen Moonves has been a central figure in the show's history. She has been married to former CBS CEO Les Moonves, who defended the show during its season of bigotry but later criticized its casting. Julie Chen Moonves started using her husband’s last name on the air during his scandal and returned for Celebrity Big Brother season two and Big Brother 21.

32. Executive Producer Allison Grodner: Executive producer Allison Grodner has been instrumental in shaping the show's format and direction. She has stated that Big Brother is “the least manipulated reality show out there” and that producers “embrace” and “love having” live feed watchers. This approach ensures that the show remains as authentic as possible, despite the extensive surveillance.

Behind-the-Scenes Secrets

There are many behind-the-scenes secrets that make Big Brother the show it is today. Here are some intriguing facts.

33. Behind-the-Scenes Secrets: Big Brother has a rich history of behind-the-scenes secrets and facts. From the casting process to live feed cuts, there are many aspects of the show that are not immediately apparent to viewers. For example, during season-12, TV critics toured the house, and executive producer Allison Grodner talked to them about the show's design and production decisions.

34. Production Designer Scott Storey: Production designer Scott Storey is responsible for creating the Big Brother house. In an interview, he explained how the design process works to prevent cheating and ensure that the house is functional for both contestants and cameras. The house is designed to be a self-sufficient environment, with all necessary amenities for the contestants.

35. TV Critics' Tour: During BB12, CBS opened the Big Brother house to a tour for TV critics. The tour started from the yard, which is not as open or expansive as it seems on TV. Then they continued into the control room and into the camera cross—the space behind the mirrors where camera operators do their work. This tour provided a unique glimpse into how the show is produced and filmed.

36. Hamsterwatch: Hamsterwatch, aka Dingo, is a Big Brother feed watcher who ran down the differences between Big Brother Canada and CBS's version. This highlights the unique aspects of each country's adaptation of the show, showcasing how different cultures and audiences respond to the same format.

Cultural Impact and Legacy

Big Brother has left a lasting impact on reality TV and popular culture. Here are some ways the show has influenced the world.

37. 20th Anniversary: To mark the 20th anniversary of Big Brother’s arrival on CBS, reality blurred compiled 20 pieces from its archives, including behind-the-scenes stories, recaps of some of its ugliest moments, interviews with some of its winners and producers, and stories about what keeps people watching. This collection provides a comprehensive look at the show's history and evolution over two decades.

38. Toxicity in the Show: Big Brother has been criticized for its toxicity, particularly in earlier seasons. The show has faced allegations of sexism, misogyny, and unpunished rule violations. Despite these issues, the show remains popular due to its unique format and the drama that unfolds within the house.

39. Producers' Insights: Big Brother producers and CBS executives have provided valuable insights into what happens behind the scenes. Executive producer Allison Grodner has stated that producers do not show sex because the show is “conservative.” This approach ensures that the show maintains a certain level of respectability while still providing an engaging viewing experience.

40. Former CBS CEO Les Moonves: Former CBS CEO Les Moonves defended Big Brother during its season of bigotry but later criticized its casting. He also watched every episode of Big Brother and left CBS in the fall of 2018 after multiple women accused him of sexual harassment and/or violent assault.

41. Impact on Society: Big Brother serves as a time capsule capturing the structures, concerns, and progress occurring in the real world. Each season reflects the ideas and concerns that are top of mind in any given day and age. The show has been a cultural phenomenon, providing a unique lens through which to view societal issues.

Contestant Dynamics and Strategies

The contestants of Big Brother bring their own unique personalities and strategies to the game. Here are some insights into their dynamics.

42. Contestant Personalities: The show has featured a diverse range of contestants over the years, each with their own unique personality and strategy. From Ronnie Talbott to Cody Calafiore, each contestant brings their own strengths and weaknesses to the game, making for compelling viewing.

43. Strategic Gameplay: Big Brother is as much about strategic gameplay as it is about personal relationships. Contestants must navigate complex alliances and make difficult decisions to stay in the game. This strategic aspect adds depth to the show, making it more than just a simple competition.

44. Emotional Pressures: The show pushes contestants to their limits, challenging their character, integrity, and morality. Contestants often lose sight of the grand prize in the process, making for emotionally charged moments that captivate audiences.

Fan Engagement and Community

Big Brother has a dedicated fan base that engages with the show in various ways. Here are some ways fans stay connected.

45. Live Feed Watchers: Big Brother has a dedicated community of live feed watchers who tune in 24/7 to follow the contestants' lives. These watchers provide real-time commentary and insights, adding an extra layer of engagement for fans.

46. Behind-the-Scenes Stories: Reality blurred has compiled numerous behind-the-scenes stories about Big Brother, including recaps of some of its ugliest moments and interviews with some of its winners and producers. These stories provide a comprehensive look at the show's history and evolution.

47. Cultural Significance: Big Brother has become a cultural phenomenon, reflecting the ideas and concerns of its time. From conversations about LGBTQ+ identity to discussions around racism, the show has tackled complex societal issues in a unique and engaging way.

48. Impact on Reality TV: Big Brother has had a significant impact on reality TV as a whole. Its format has influenced other shows like Survivor and The Amazing Race, making it a staple in the CBS reality trifecta.

49. Fan Engagement: Big Brother has a dedicated fan base that engages with the show through various means, including live feed watching, social media, and fan sites. This engagement is crucial for the show's success, providing a sense of community among fans.

50. Legacy and Future: Big Brother continues to be a popular show, with new seasons and spin-offs being produced regularly. Its legacy as a cultural phenomenon and its impact on reality TV ensure that it will remain a staple in television programming for years to come. As the show continues to evolve, it remains a fascinating reflection of our society and its values.

Big Brother's Enduring Appeal

Big Brother has captivated audiences for over two decades with its unique blend of competition, strategy, and social dynamics. From its humble beginnings as a Dutch reality show to becoming a global phenomenon, it has evolved significantly. The show's 24/7 live stream, intricate camera setup, and intense casting process add layers of intrigue. Contestants face psychological evaluations, strict rules, and complete isolation, making their journey both challenging and fascinating. Despite controversies and criticisms, Big Brother continues to reflect societal issues, from racism to LGBTQ+ representation. Its impact on reality TV is undeniable, influencing shows like Survivor and The Amazing Race. With a dedicated fan base and ongoing adaptations, Big Brother remains a staple in television, offering a compelling look at human behavior and societal values. Its legacy is set to endure, keeping viewers hooked for years to come.