The new season of Big Brother kicked off on ITV2 Sunday night, introducing a cast of 16 contestants vying for a £100,000 prize. Returning hosts AJ Odudu and Will Best welcomed the hopefuls into the house, which immediately revealed a twist: one housemate is a "mole" with a one-week mission to create chaos and nominate others.
The mole, identified as Tays, 23, a streamer and content creator from Manchester, will only remain in the house for seven days but has the power to nominate three contestants for eviction in the next episode. Tays admitted he anticipates feeling guilty but plans to embrace the competitive aspect of the role.
The diverse lineup includes Charlotte, 18, a student from Oxford and a quadruple amputee who aims to show her capabilities. Pauline, 31, a carer from Essex, previously worked as a private investigator and described herself as a "straight shooter." Harry, 30, an online fitness coach from Croydon, anticipates his nocturnal habits might conflict with other housemates. Rochelle, 57, a housewife from Essex, applied to the show as a "joke" and is looking forward to a break from her husband of 33 years.
Also entering the house are Johanne, 44, an online marketing professional from Salford, who plans to be "unapologetically herself" and would use prize money to start an alopecia hair care line. Millie, 19, a bartender from Paisley and mother to a two-year-old, expects her spontaneous personality might clash with others. Frankie, 23, a marketing manager from London, plans to spend time in the hot tub and hopes to attract attention from "single mums." Omar, 21, a jewelry seller from London, aims to present an "energy people haven't seen on mainstream TV before."
Samuel, 21, an administrative apprentice from Slough, who stated he has never had a partner, is keen on "building bonds with genuine people" but cautioned that his honesty and occasional grumpiness might be challenging for others. Chelsey, 29, a social worker from Manchester, shared her background of growing up in a women's refuge and expressed a desire to help her mother if she wins. Yasmin, 29, a teacher from Manchester, joked about having "no common sense" despite her three degrees. Lynx, 24, a property developer from London, intends to be unconventional and authentic in the house. Rob, 25, a radio presenter from Bideford, plans to bring "energy" and "jazz hands." Rhianna, 21, a stay-at-home daughter from Chelsea, who lived a "privileged" life, hopes to win to gain independence. Philip, 53, a content creator from Liverpool, promised to "always put a smile on everyone's faces."