Celebrity Big Brother has seen its launch show figures drop by nearly one million after returning for its latest series.
AJ Odudu and Will Best returned to present the launch show last night and officially unveiled the celebrities in the 2025 line-up, marking the second time the series has aired on ITV after the broadcaster gained the rights to the format.
However, viewing figures for the launch show have dropped significantly since last year, with just 1.8 million people tuning in to watch. In comparison, the 2024 launch show saw 2.7 million people tune in (via Broadcast).
The opening episode has also sparked some controversy after new housemate Mickey Rourke exhibited some "inappropriate" behaviour towards host AJ Odudu before entering the house.
Fans quickly shared their concern on social media after the scenes, with several calling for ITV to remove Rourke from the house.
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Other celebrities appearing on the 2025 series include Dance Moms' Jojo Siwa, Coronation Street's Jack P Shepherd, Love Island's Chris Hughes, EastEnders actor Patsy Palmer and Drag Race's Danny Beard.
Rounding out the 2025 line-up are Chesney Hawkes, Trisha Goddard, Michael Fabricant, Ella Rae Wise, Daley Thomspon, Donna Preston and Angelica Bell.
Last night's episode included some surprises, with housemates given the chance to earn points for the house through secret challenges.
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Chesney Hawkes successfully earned points by introducing himself as "The One and Only", while Michael Fabricant added to the prize fund by High Fiving new housemates and greeting them with Austin Powers's catchphrase: "Groovy Baby."
In tonight's episode, viewers will find out if the celebrities cashed in the points for a food delivery service or washing machine.
Celebrity Big Brother airs on ITV1, ITVX, STV and STV Player on weeknights from 9pm.
Read more Big Brother news on our dedicated homepage
Social Executive, Entertainment Portfolio After completing her joint honours degree in Journalism and English Literature at Cardiff University, Iona joined Digital Spy as a Content Production Intern in 2022, where she wrote across both news and features, specialising in TV and movies. Following her internship, Iona continued contributing to the site as a freelance reporter, becoming social executive for the Hearst UK entertainment portfolio in summer 2025. Iona now leads the DS social channels, covering red carpets with stars such as Paul Mescal, Austin Butler, and more.
