Big Brother is reportedly set to make a shock comeback on ITV. It comes weeks after rumours emerged saying the broadcaster was 'closing in' on a deal to revive the show.
And insiders reportedly told The Sun, the new version of the show would go 'back to basics'. It would make a return almost four years after it was axed by Channel 5 in 2018.
According to Broadcastnow.co.uk, the hope would be that Big Brother could replicate the success of Love Island. Since being revived in 2015, the ITV2 show has become a hit as viewers turn in to watch the latest singletons 'couple up' and 'crack on'.
Previously, a source The Sun told of the comeback and admitted: "They think putting it on ITV2 will open it up to a new audience and legion of younger fans." They then added negotiations were at an "early, and delicate, stage."
It is thought the new series of Big Brother would, if picked up, air on ITV2. It would be pencilled in for an autumn run in 2023 after next year's Love Island has aired.
Originally hosted by Davina McCall, Big Brother started off as a social experiment before lasting for 18 years. The show, and its instantly recognisable eye logo, were finally axed in 2018.
A TV source told The Sun: “ITV is the home of big appointment telly. “They know better than anyone how to put on big live events."
They added: "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.”
ITV have yet to comment on the claims made by The Sun.
