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Big Brother fans promised ‘twists and game-changing moments’ as show’s return date for 2026 is confirmed

The new series is here!

Big Brother is making its big comeback for a brand new 2026 series, and ITV has now confirmed exactly when viewers can tune in.

The iconic reality show is back with a fresh batch of housemates, all hoping to make it to the end and walk away with a seriously tempting cash prize.

Telly bosses have also teased “unexpected twists” and “game-changing moments” as the new series gets ready to shake things up.

AJ Odudu and Will Best are returning for Big Brother 2026 (Credit: YouTube/ ITV)

The famous house has also been “reimagined”, promising plenty of surprises for the new housemates.

So when does Big Brother 2026 start? Here’s everything we know.

Big Brother 2026: Who is hosting?

While the Big Brother house has had a dramatic makeover, viewers can expect some familiar faces at the helm.

AJ Odudu and Will Best will return as hosts when the reality favourite comes back. They will welcome the new housemates before seeing them off when their time in the house comes to an end.

There is, however, a big change coming to Big Brother’s companion show.

Kate Lawler is returning to her Big Brother roots for brand new spin-off Big Brother: The Group Chat. Kate famously won Big Brother in 2002, so she certainly knows what it takes to survive inside the house.

She will be joined by GK Barry, with the pair hosting exclusive interviews with evicted housemates, celebrity fans and special guests.

Richard Storry won Big Brother 2025 (Credit: ITV)

What is the prize?

This year’s Big Brother will once again feature tasks, high stakes nominations and dramatic live evictions as the contestants battle it out.

The housemate who reaches the end and is crowned Big Brother 2026 winner will receive a cash prize. ITV has not yet revealed the amount, describing it only as “life-changing”.

Richard Storry won the 2025 series and took home £100,000. We’re expecting the prize to remain the same this year.

When does Big Brother return for 2026?

ITV has confirmed that Big Brother will officially return on Sunday September 13, 2026. The launch show will air on ITV2 and ITVX from 9pm.

Big Brother: The Group Chat will follow immediately afterwards from Sunday to Thursday nights. Viewers will also be able to watch it on ITV’s YouTube account.

If podcasts are more your thing, Big Brother: The Group Chat will also be available across all major podcast platforms.

Will you be tuning in for the latest series?

Read more: They’re back! ITV reveals exactly when Loose Women, Lorraine and This Morning’s Cat Deeley and Ben Shepard are returning

Big Brother 2026 starts at 9pm on ITV2 on Sunday September 13, 2026.


Natasha Rigler
TV Editor (Entertainment)

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