Big Brother 8 opens its doors in 2 weeks

It's TV worst-kept secret, but C4 confirmed that the eighth version of Big Brother will start on Wednesday, May 30. Rumours abound about what lies in wait for the new housemates, including an indoor to outdoor pool, but C4 bosses are giving little away. "We've got some big new plans and ideas and we want this year's Big Brother to feel fresh, funny and very exciting. The house will have a bold style and some quirky new surprises that are exclusive to Big Brother 8 - all will be revealed in due course," said executive producer Rebecca De Young. Wannabe housemates had to go through the usual gruelling audition process, but this year one housemate was also due to be selected by applying online. "We look for individuals with a unique appeal who will be interesting within a group," said Rebecca. "All our potential housemates are given the 'Talk of Doom' where we encourage them to think carefully about the impact taking part could have on their lives." And it's all change for the spin-off shows, after Russell Brand recently quit Big Brother's Big Mouth and Big Brother's Big Brain was dropped by show bosses. But there's good news for Russell fans as the zany comedian will be back presenting one-off retrospective show Big Brother: According To Russell Brand on Friday, May 25.

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