Presenter Chris Hughes has reportedly been hired as the new host of Big Brother's video podcast after spin-off show Late and Live was axed. The 33-year-old previously appeared on ITV's celebrity version of the reality show last year, where he met his girlfriend JoJo Siwa. Sources claim Hughes has proven super popular with viewers, prompting bosses to hand him the hosting role.
A source said producers hope Siwa could make an appearance on the show, though she is currently busy with work commitments. Big Brother is set to return for its new series on September 18, with this year's run planned to be ITV's longest yet at eight weeks.
"He and JoJo have a legion of fans and have become part of the special group of people who have found love in the house," an insider said. The insider told The Sun that ITV wants to build on recent success with digital content: "ITV has seen the success of the Love Island podcast this year and want to replicate that with Big Brother."
The insider added: "JoJo is currently tied up with other commitments but would be welcome on to the show should the dates work for her." Representatives for Big Brother and Chris Hughes have been contacted by the Daily Mail for comment.
Cancellation of Late and Live
In November, it was revealed that Big Brother spin-off show Late and Live had been axed after three years on air. Hosted by AJ Odudu and Will Best, the companion program failed to attract enough viewers despite featuring guests such as Siwa and other popular former housemates.
It has been suggested that the live broadcast format contributed to the decline, as many viewers switched to watching on ITVX. An insider told The Sun that the main series faced tough television competition: "Big Brother in general has struggled this year due to fierce competition from the likes of Celebrity Traitors."
The insider continued: "Late & Live has really struggled due to the main show not doing as well as hoped. Over the past few weeks whispers have been rife that the show would be axed and then during the final week it was an open topic on the studio floor."
Staff working on the show were quietly informed of its cancellation. "Bosses have quietly told staff, many of whom are freelancers, not to expect the show to return," the insider revealed, adding that while the axing was "a shame," every show must eventually come to an end.
Celebrity Guests in Main Series
This year's housemates are reportedly set to receive a major surprise just days after entering the house in the form of celebrity guests. Taking inspiration from Sharon Osbourne, who appeared on Celebrity Big Brother as a "house lodger," producers are lining up former stars of the reality show for temporary stints.
Celebrities who appeared on Celebrity Big Brother during its runs on Channel 4 and Channel 5 are thought to be in the running for the upcoming series. Reality star Gemma Collins is reportedly at the top of bosses' wishlist for the lodger role.
