Big Brother: The Group Chat / © ITV
ITV has officially announced its new Big Brother spinoff show for the new series, Big Brother: The Group Chat.
As previously reported, the usual spinoff show – the studio-based Big Brother: Late & Live – is largely being dropped this year in favour of a new ‘visualised podcast’ show from Sundays to Thursdays, although the Late & Live format will remain on Fridays after evictions.
The hosts of The Group Chat have now been confirmed as BB legend Kate Lawler – winner of series 3 in 2002 – and influencer GK Barry, who will be joined by evicted housemates, celebrities and special guests to discuss the latest events in the house.
The show will air straight after the Sunday to Thursday episodes of BB on ITV2, ITVX and YouTube, as well as being available via major podcast platforms.
“Big Brother has been a huge part of my life since I first stepped through those doors 24 years ago, so to now be returning in this role alongside the fantastic GK Barry feels like an exciting full-circle moment,” said Lawler, 46. “I can’t wait to get stuck into all the conversations, twists and talking points with the fans, while bringing a little of my own first-hand experience to the mix.”
GK Barry added: “I’ve been a massive Big Brother fan for years, so getting the chance to be part of the show in this way is genuinely a dream come true. And getting to do it alongside an iconic BB legend like Kate makes it even more exciting. I honestly can’t wait to start, have loads of fun with it and have a front-row seat to all the drama, surprises and big moments.”
David Smyth, ITV’s commissioner of reality TV, said: “Big Brother: The Group Chat is the perfect way to give Big Brother fans even more of what they love, and we couldn’t have asked for better hosts to bring it to life.
“Kate knows the Big Brother experience better than anyone, while GK is a hugely successful podcaster, and both have a brilliant ability to connect with audiences. They’re the perfect pair to chat through all the gossip bringing their own unique insight and energy to the show.”
The new series of Big Brother is scheduled to begin on Sunday, September 13.
