Chantelle Houghton is reportedly in discussions with ITV bosses for a potential return to Big Brother, the reality show that launched her career two decades ago. Houghton, 42, first entered the Big Brother house as a civilian in 2006, famously having to pretend she was a famous singer.
She went on to win her series and later married fellow housemate Preston, 44. Following her time on the show, Houghton has appeared in various other reality television programs and relationships. The upcoming season of Big Brother is scheduled to premiere on Sunday, September 13, with reports suggesting Houghton could feature as a guest housemate.
A source told The Sun that ITV is seeking well-known personalities from various seasons of Big Brother to make guest appearances. The insider suggested that Houghton would be a "perfect Channel 4 signing" and that her return would be a "fun twist," given her unique entry as a civilian into a celebrity edition. "Chantelle is larger than life and game for anything," the source added. "Big Brother bosses are still securing famous names to go into the house as guests in residence – and they think it'll be a brilliant twist."
Houghton herself has hinted at new projects, stating, "I started in reality TV and I would love to do more. I enjoy it, it's fun and I can be myself. Who knows what's next, but I'm back and this time, I'm not going anywhere."
This potential appearance follows a trend of former contestants returning, inspired by Sharon Osbourne's stint as a 'house lodger' on Celebrity Big Brother. ITV is reportedly considering former stars from Big Brother's time on Channel 4 and Channel 5, with Gemma Collins also mentioned as a desired guest.
This year's Big Brother series is expected to be ITV's longest yet, running for eight weeks. The show is also undergoing a format change, with plans to replace the spin-off show 'Late and Live' with a nightly vodcast, similar to the format used for 'I'm A Celebrity...Get Me Out of Here!'. Hosts AJ Odudu and Will Best are set to return, although their involvement may overlap with Best's participation in 'Strictly Come Dancing'. Earlier reports indicated that ITV might be considering discontinuing the 'Celebrity Big Brother' spin-off due to difficulties in attracting high-profile contestants.