[Benji]

Just to put some of the rumours at rest, there will definately be another series next year. (BB9)

So, the Papers are all wrong

BB secured until at least BB9
Friday, May 16 2003, 10:33 BST

By Neil Wilkes, Editor

Big Brother will be on air until at least 2008, even if ratings fall, according to Channel 4.

The network is currently halfway through its four-year contract with BB production company Endemol, although it's almost certain to be extended by two to three years, taking the series through to Big Brother 9 in 2008.

"At this stage it is good for another two or three years beyond the current four-year deal," said Peter Grimsdale, head of cross-platform development at C4. "It has become a fixture in the nation’s calendar and has become an event in people’s lives."

He added that the show would still be "worthwhile property" even if ratings began to drop because it brings high ratings to E4, where live action from the house is streamed around-the-clock.

Meanwhile, the teenage 'Big Brother' may indeed have some truth to it. This week's Broadcast magazine reports that C4 is in discussions with Endemol over launching the series in time for Christmas.