[Kaz]

Story from Ananova

Big Brother returns to its roots

Producers of Big Brother have confirmed the fourth series will start at the end of May - with a new-look house and 12 new contestants.

The Channel 4 show will be returning to its original reality format for its nine-week run, without any of last year's gimmicks such as the rich and poor sides.

The new "cocoon-like" open-plan house has a simple, natural design and features an additional outdoor sheltered area.

The 12 housemates have yet to be finalised, but producers are looking for ordinary people who will get on well and do not play up to the cameras, as in previous years.

The housemates will still have a weekly task to determine their food budget. But the stakes have been increased with the group having to place a minimum 50% bet on the outcome.

In addition, the housemates will still take part in a live challenge each Saturday night.

Executive Producer Gigi Eligoloff says: "This year, the absolute essence of the show is the people and their existence, cutting individuals off from society and getting them to live together as a community.

"Big Brother is all about character and personality and this year's focus should allow people the scope to reveal who they really are.

"The human capacity to surprise is what makes the series so compelling, and of course Big Brother always has some surprises of its own.

"All this and an all-important game to play - just what will people do for £70,000 and what tactics, if any, will they employ to stay?"

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This is sounding EXCELLENT

I'm getting excited now!

[Stu xxx]

HOORAH!!!!

:elephant :

It sounds really good but i though there where going to be 14 contestants this year? xxx

Can't wait to see the house x

[Amy]

GREAT NEWS

I can't wait for BB4 to start It sounds like it's going to be a great show

[mcginn]

Thats great news

Can't wait till it starts

[BigSister]

I cant waittttt
I wish they had 10 though