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Entertainment June 29, 2026

Davina McCall Opens Up About Her Involvement in ITV's Big Brother Reboot

Davina McCall Opens Up About Her Involvement in ITV's Big Brother Reboot

A shocking revelation from Big Brother hosting legend Davina McCall has left fans stunned. The 58-year-old TV personality, who was a household name during her time hosting Channel 4's iteration of the hit reality series, has revealed that she was turned down by ITV to host the show's reboot.

Davina, who hosted Big Brother from 2000 to 2010, made the surprise confession on the Business Growth Secrets podcast. She explained that she had approached the network to reprise her role, either as a host or even just voicing her trademark catchphrase, but was rejected in favor of new presenters AJ Odudu and Will Best.

"I put myself forward to present it and they went with new presenters," Davina said. "But I was like, 'Can I please just be pre-titles and just go 'fancy another one' but they didn't want me to do that, and I was like: 'Fk'."

Davina McCall on Big Brother

The news has sent shockwaves among Big Brother fans, with many taking to social media to express their disappointment and frustration at ITV's decision. "ITV fumbled so bad, Davina IS Big Brother," one fan wrote. "This certainly would have enhanced the credibility of the show immeasurably."

Davina has since spoken about her decision to step back from full-time work, citing two health scares, including a brain tumour operation and a surgery for a small, early-stage breast cancer tumour. She has vowed to prioritize her health and well-being, and has even announced plans to work a four-day week.

The knowledge that Big Brother icon Davina could have been the face of the ITV reboot has left fans wondering what could have been. "She would have been (and still would be) the best host for Big Brother," one fan wrote. "She *is* Big Brother."

Davina McCall

Big Brother will return for a new extended series this autumn, over the course of eight weeks. However, the show's future remains uncertain, with many fans questioning the network's decision to pass on Davina McCall.

"Honestly, as someone who doesn’t mind AJ and Will, I think it was a massive mistake," one fan noted. "Davina would’ve given a totally different Big Brother and would’ve added so much charm and nostalgia."

The show's producers have yet to comment on the situation, but one thing is certain: Davina McCall's revelation has left a lasting impact on the Big Brother community.

Davina McCall

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