ITV is reportedly in talks about reviving the UK version of Big Brother next year.
The show - as well as its celebrity spinoff - has been off the air since 2018, when it was axed by Channel 5, who had taken over broadcasts from Channel 4 in 2010.
Rumours of a comeback have abounded in the years since, but nothing has materialised until now, with The Sun claiming that ITV is serious about picking up the format.
The newspaper says that the broadcaster would air the show on ITV2 in autumn 2023, after that year's edition of Love Island ends, with civilians as the housemates.
Big Brother could also be a key driver of viewers to ITVX, ITV's major new streaming service launching this November, possibly with the re-introduction of fan favourite live feeds.
"ITV is the home of big appointment telly," a source said. "They know better than anyone how to put on big live events.
"They think putting it on ITV2 will open it up to a new audience and legion of younger fans.
"They are really keen on getting the deal done on Big Brother, and hope to have something firm to announce soon.
"The talks are still at an early, and delicate, stage and the next few weeks will be key.
"It needs the full treatment and they're confident they are the ones who can return it to its legendary former glory.
"It has millions of fans and is one of the most iconic TV shows of its generation."
An ITV spokesperson refused to comment on the speculation.
Neil Wilkes
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