Celebrity Big Brother returns to screens in the UK tonight (18th August 2011) for its first outing on Channel 5. The programme was axed by Channel 4 last year after 11 series of the main show and several instalments of the celebrity version, reports the Press Association.
As expected, media tycoon Richard Desmond and the new Big Brother bosses have attempted to reel in a diverse group of celebrities for the launch, with Kerry Katona, singers Jedward and Sally Bercow, the wife of the House of Commons speaker, all tipped to appear. Programme maker Endemol have completely revamped the famous house at Elstree Studios, but the show's recognisable theme tune by Paul Oakenfold and original narrator Marcus Bentley will remain. Another change to the show sees Davina Mccall make way for the former Big Brother winner Brian Downling, who takes over as host. Speaking about the new series, Dowling said, "What I'm saying is it's now an entertainment show. It's not a social experiment, there's no barbed wire, no chickens. I hated the chickens. It's a primetime entertainment show".
This year's Celebrity Big Brother contestants will be able to make use of a swimming pool, a gym and all importantly - frosted glasses on the shower screen.