Big Brother watchers have attacked the new series, alleging it has ‘gone woke’ after revealing its diverse lineup of new housemates.
The reality program returned on Sunday after a five-year break, with new competitors including crippled DJ Dylan, Multiple Sclerosis sufferer Kerry, and practicing Muslim Farida. Kerry made history by becoming the first housemate to arrive via motorized scooter.
However, fans on X/Twitter were divided with some alleging the reality show was ‘ticking boxes’ with its choice of players.
“Big Brother has essentially just reached the quota for every sort of individual,’ said a fan.
Big Brother is so woke
— Nathan Richardson (@NathRNath) October 8, 2023
All boxes ticked on Big Brother, I see.✅
— I. McUnt (@Bonkers808) October 8, 2023
Other viewers, however, were quick to remind that the show has always had a diverse cast.
not to be dramatic, but i love how big brother is basically the only tv programme that shows what the people in this country are actually like #bbuk
— will (@getwellsoongeri) October 8, 2023
Big Brother hasn't "gone woke" for bein diverse. It's literally the point of the show! Put a load of completely different people together in a small space so we can all watch them fight and implode for entertainment 👍🏽#BBUK
— Maria's Not My Name (@SabzMB1) October 8, 2023
Big Brother watchers also expressed outrage after discovering that the brand new series’ premiere on Sunday had been pre-recorded.
The original run of the renowned reality program always included a live opening when the participants entered the famed home, but ITV chose to record their first episode 24 hours earlier.