Celebrity Big Brother 2018 stands out as a pivotal year in the history of the iconic reality TV franchise, delivering not one but two explosive seasons on Channel 5 in the UK, each packed with unforgettable moments, heated controversies, and star-studded casts that kept viewers glued to their screens. Fans eagerly tuned in to watch celebrities from diverse backgrounds—ranging from politicians and actors to reality stars and musicians—navigate the challenges of communal living, strategic alliances, and public scrutiny inside the infamous Big Brother house. The year kicked off with Series 21, themed “Year of the Woman” to commemorate the centenary of women’s suffrage, which introduced an all-female launch before bringing in male housemates, sparking discussions on gender dynamics and empowerment. Then, just months later, Series 22, dubbed “Eye of the Storm,” focused on celebrities who had weathered public scandals, amplifying the drama with themes of redemption and conflict. Meanwhile, across the pond, the United States launched its inaugural season of Celebrity Big Brother in February 2018, coinciding with the Winter Olympics and featuring a mix of athletes, musicians, and political figures. As we reflect on these seasons from the perspective of 2026, where the UK version has been “rested” by ITV for the year and is slated to return in 2027 on ITV2, this comprehensive article dives deep into the highs, lows, and lasting impacts of Celebrity Big Brother 2018. We explore the housemates’ backgrounds, key events, evictions, and where they stand today, drawing on the latest updates to provide a fresh, insightful look back at a year that redefined reality television. Transitioning from the raw intensity of live feeds to the polished narratives of post-show careers, 2018’s editions not only entertained millions but also influenced cultural conversations around fame, controversy, and personal growth, making them essential chapters in the Big Brother legacy. The excitement of Celebrity Big Brother 2018 began building long before the housemates stepped through the doors, with rumors swirling about potential participants and themes that promised to push boundaries. Channel 5, which had been airing the show since 2011 after its initial run on Channel 4, aimed to capitalize on the format’s enduring appeal by scheduling two celebrity seasons in a single year—a bold move that doubled the drama and viewer engagement. Series 21 launched on January 2, 2018, amid celebrations of women’s achievements, featuring a house redesigned with nods to suffragettes like Emmeline Pankhurst and Emily Davison, complete with themed bedrooms and a new sauna area for those intimate conversations. The all-female start created immediate buzz, as housemates like former politician Ann Widdecombe and transgender newsreader India Willoughby clashed over ideologies, setting the tone for debates that extended beyond the house walls. By Day 4, the introduction of male housemates, including drag queen Courtney Act (Shane Jenek) and footballer John Barnes, shifted the dynamics, leading to alliances, flirtations, and evictions that kept the audience voting in record numbers. The series ran for 32 days, tying for the longest at the time, and culminated in a finale watched by millions, where Courtney Act emerged victorious with 49.43% of the vote, marking a milestone for LGBTQ+ representation in reality TV. In the US, the first Celebrity Big Brother aired from February 7 to 25, 2018, on CBS, strategically timed against the Olympics, and featured housemates like Omarosa Manigault Newman and Marissa Jaret Winokur, who won the season. While the UK versions dominated headlines for their cultural impact, the US edition introduced the format to American audiences with a compressed schedule and high-stakes gameplay. As we fast-forward to 2026, with the UK show on hiatus amid challenges in securing big-name talent, these 2018 seasons remind us why Celebrity Big Brother remains a benchmark for reality TV—blending entertainment with real-life revelations that resonate long after the cameras stop rolling. Looking back, Celebrity Big Brother 2018 captured the essence of a changing media landscape, where social media amplified every twist and turn, turning housemates into instant viral sensations. Fans dissected tasks, nominations, and diary room confessions on platforms like Twitter (now X), where posts about the shows garnered thousands of engagements, as seen in recent nostalgic threads revisiting the drama. The year’s dual UK seasons also reflected broader societal shifts: Series 21’s focus on women’s suffrage encouraged conversations about gender equality, while Series 22’s scandal-ridden narrative explored themes of forgiveness and public judgment. Critics praised the shows for their unfiltered portrayal of celebrity vulnerabilities, but they also faced backlash for exploiting personal struggles, such as Rodrigo Alves’ ejection for offensive language in Series 22. In 2026, as ITV pauses the celebrity spin-off to regroup for a 2027 return, the legacy of 2018 endures through reunions, memoirs, and ongoing careers of its stars. This article not only recaps the action but also updates you on the housemates’ current lives, offering a complete picture of how one year in the Big Brother house can alter trajectories forever. Whether you’re a die-hard fan reliving the moments or a newcomer discovering the hype, join us as we unpack the full story, complete with behind-the-scenes insights and exclusive updates. Celebrity Big Brother UK Series 21: Year of the Woman – The Groundbreaking Season That Celebrated Empowerment Celebrity Big Brother UK Series 21 burst onto screens on January 2, 2018, with a bold all-female launch that honored the 100th anniversary of women’s right to vote in Britain, instantly setting it apart from previous installments and igniting conversations about feminism and representation in media. Producers crafted the house with suffrage-inspired decor, including bedrooms named after iconic figures like Pankhurst and Davison, symbolizing strength and resilience as the eight initial female housemates—Amanda Barrie, Ann Widdecombe, Ashley James, India Willoughby, Jess Impiazzi, Maggie Oliver, Malika Haqq, and Rachel Johnson—entered to cheers and anticipation. These women, from varied walks of life, quickly formed bonds and rivalries, tackling tasks that tested their physical and mental prowess while viewers voted to influence their fates. The twist came on Day 4 when eight male housemates—Andrew Brady, Daniel O’Reilly (Dapper Laughs), Ginuwine, John Barnes, Jonny Mitchell, Shane Lynch, Shane Jenek (Courtney Act), and Wayne Sleep—joined the mix, transforming the house into a melting pot of personalities that fueled 37 episodes of non-stop entertainment. Emma Willis hosted with her signature poise, guiding audiences through live evictions and surprises, while the series averaged millions of viewers, proving the format’s timeless appeal even as reality TV evolved. The housemates in Series 21 brought a rich tapestry of backgrounds that enriched the show’s narrative, each contributing unique stories and perspectives that viewers connected with deeply. Amanda Barrie, the 82-year-old actress famous for her roles in Carry On films and Coronation Street, charmed everyone with her wit and resilience, often sharing anecdotes from her long career in entertainment while navigating house politics with grace. Ann Widdecombe, the 70-year-old former Conservative politician known for her staunch views on social issues, clashed with several housemates over topics like transgender rights and abortion, but her no-nonsense attitude earned her a runner-up spot, showcasing her enduring public persona. Ashley James, a 30-year-old reality star and DJ from Made in Chelsea, brought glamour and emotional depth, forming close friendships and advocating for body positivity during heartfelt diary room sessions. India Willoughby, the 52-year-old newsreader and Britain’s first transgender TV presenter, sparked intense debates on gender identity, particularly with Widdecombe, highlighting the season’s role in advancing LGBTQ+ visibility. Jess Impiazzi, a 28-year-old model and Ex on the Beach alum, impressed with her competitive spirit in tasks, while Maggie Oliver, the 62-year-old detective who exposed the Rochdale child abuse scandal, added gravitas with her stories of justice and reform. Malika Haqq, the 34-year-old Keeping Up with the Kardashians star, infused American flair and vulnerability, opening up about personal struggles. Rachel Johnson, the 52-year-old journalist and sister to Boris Johnson, provided sharp commentary on house events, blending intellect with humor. On the male side, Andrew Brady from The Apprentice brought entrepreneurial energy but faced eviction due to tensions; Daniel O’Reilly, the comedian with a controversial past, stirred drama with his humor; Ginuwine, the R&B singer, serenaded the house and formed romantic links; John Barnes, the footballer, shared sports wisdom but was evicted early; Jonny Mitchell from Love Island added youthful drama; Shane Lynch of Boyzone offered musical talents and calm mediation; Courtney Act (Shane Jenek), the drag queen from RuPaul’s Drag Race, dazzled with performances and authenticity, ultimately winning the season; and Wayne Sleep, the 69-year-old ballet dancer, delighted with his elegance and stories from the stage. Together, this cast created a dynamic environment where personal growth met explosive confrontations, making Series 21 a standout in the franchise’s history. Key events in Series 21 unfolded with relentless pace, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats as housemates tackled innovative tasks that blended physical challenges with psychological twists, fostering alliances and betrayals that defined the season’s narrative arc. From Day 1, the women dove into “Big Brother’s Driving School,” a series of car-themed competitions like axe throwing and tyre changing, where winners gained immunity and power, setting up early power dynamics as Amanda and Jess triumphed in the circuit board task. The males’ arrival on Day 4 introduced fresh energy, with tasks like a talent show where Courtney Act shone, earning the “most talented” title and a trophy, while manipulation challenges between Andrew and Malika added layers of strategy. Nominations began in earnest on Day 8, with women voting and India and Jonny facing the first public vote, leading to India’s eviction on Day 11—the season’s first casualty. As the days progressed, endurance tasks and secret missions, such as the “Secret Factory” with cake decorating and rubbish sorting, tied genders in competition, but men’s win granted them nomination power, escalating tensions. Punishments for rule breaks, like Wayne writing lines on a chalkboard, injected humor amid the drama. The midpoint saw double evictions, with Rachel and Maggie leaving on Day 18 after a driving school twist where Ann and Daniel saved and replaced nominees. Gender-split nominations on Day 19 led to John’s shock eviction by the women’s vote on Day 20, a move that reshaped house alliances. The final weeks ramped up with all-housemate nominations, culminating in triple evictions on Day 29, where Ashley, Malika, and Amanda departed, paving the way for the finale where Courtney Act claimed victory, celebrating diversity and resilience in a season that truly embodied its empowering theme. The Dual Storms of 2018: An Unforgettable Year The year 2018 delivered two distinct seasons of Celebrity Big Brother, each featuring unique themes and high-stakes drama. Producers launched Series 21 in January, branding it as the “Year of the Woman” to celebrate female empowerment. This season marked the centenary of women gaining the right to vote in the United Kingdom. Consequently, the show initially cast only female housemates, introducing men later to balance the social dynamic of the house. Just a few months later, Series 22 arrived in August with the foreboding title “Eye of the Storm.” This season focused on celebrities who had previously faced significant media scrutiny or public scandals. The producers certainly delivered on this promise, as the series generated one of the biggest controversies in reality TV history. Both seasons provided a fascinating look at fame, morality, and human behavior under the watchful eye of the cameras. Celebrity Big Brother 21: The Year of the Woman The January 2018 season stood out because of its sophisticated and politically charged atmosphere. Producers wanted to honor the suffragette movement while maintaining the entertainment value of a reality competition. They curated a diverse group of women ranging from political figures to international socialites. This creative choice sparked important conversations about gender roles, sexuality, and generational differences throughout the month-long experiment. Breaking Down the Centennial Theme The “Year of the Woman” theme dictated the early rhythm of the competition. For the first few days, female housemates controlled the house and made all the strategic decisions. This flipped the traditional power structure and forced the men, when they finally entered, to adapt to an established hierarchy. Viewers praised the show for highlighting the voices of strong, opinionated women from various walks of life. However, the inclusion of men eventually shifted the focus toward interpersonal relationships and ideological debates. The clash between traditionalist views and modern perspectives became a central pillar of the season’s narrative. This friction provided intellectual depth that often lacks in standard reality television formats. Consequently, Series 21 attracted a broad demographic of viewers who appreciated the thoughtful discussions alongside the inevitable house drama. Cast Profiles: From Political Icons to Reality Stars The cast of Series 21 featured a remarkable blend of personalities. Ann Widdecombe, a former Conservative MP, brought a stern and traditionalist presence to the house. Her interactions with younger housemates often highlighted the vast cultural divide between different generations in Britain. Meanwhile, Malika Haqq, known for her association with the Kardashians, represented the glitz and glamour of modern celebrity culture. Shane Jenek, better known as the drag superstar Courtney Act, provided a crucial bridge between these two worlds. Shane entered the house with a wealth of knowledge about gender identity and LGBTQ+ rights. Other notable housemates included journalist Rachel Johnson, actress Amanda Barrie, and “Dapper Laughs” creator Daniel O’Reilly. Each participant added a unique flavor to the mix, ensuring that every episode offered something new and engaging for the audience. Key Rivalries: Courtney Act vs. Ann Widdecombe The ideological battle between Courtney Act and Ann Widdecombe defined the second half of the season. Ann frequently voiced her disapproval of same-sex marriage and modern social liberties. Conversely, Courtney used her platform to educate housemates and viewers about the importance of inclusion and progress. Despite their fundamental disagreements, the two maintained a level of mutual respect that intrigued the viewing public. This rivalry was not just about personality; it represented a wider national conversation happening at the time. Fans flocked to social media to debate the points raised by both housemates during their daily tasks. Courtney’s articulate and calm approach to sensitive topics won her millions of admirers across the globe. Meanwhile, Ann’s refusal to back down earned her a loyal following among those who valued her steadfast conviction. The Grand Finale: Courtney Act Takes the Crown On the final night of Series 21, the public faced a choice between tradition and progress. Courtney Act and Ann Widdecombe stood as the final two housemates, representing the core conflict of the season. Host Emma Willis eventually announced Courtney Act as the winner of Celebrity Big Brother 2018. Shane Jenek accepted the trophy with grace, thanking the public for validating his message of acceptance. Courtney’s victory signaled a significant moment for the LGBTQ+ community in mainstream media. She demonstrated that a drag queen could win a popular vote by showing intelligence, empathy, and resilience. Following the win, Shane Jenek’s career skyrocketed, leading to international tours and television hosting opportunities. This outcome perfectly concluded the “Year of the Woman” by celebrating a person who champions equality for all. Celebrity Big Brother 22: Eye of the Storm While the January season offered intellectual stimulation, the August season brought raw, unadulterated chaos. Series 22, titled “Eye of the Storm,” gathered celebrities who were no strangers to the headlines. The cast included individuals seeking redemption and others who seemed destined for further controversy. This season ultimately became the final celebrity edition to air on Channel 5 before the show’s long hiatus. Assembling the “Controversial” Cast Producers invited a group of celebrities with high-profile “stormy” pasts. Ryan Thomas, famous for his role on Coronation Street, entered as one of the most beloved participants. Kirstie Alley brought Hollywood prestige, while Dan Osborne represented the world of British reality TV. Other housemates like Nick Leeson, the man who “broke” Barings Bank, added a layer of infamy to the lineup. However, the inclusion of Roxanne Pallett proved to be the most consequential casting choice. Roxanne, a former Emmerdale actress, arrived with a history of tabloid coverage and theatrical personality. Other participants included psychic Sally Morgan, Olympian Gabby Allen, and the eccentric Rodrigo Alves. From the very first day, tensions simmered as these big personalities fought for airtime and influence within the house. The “Punchgate” Scandal: A Cultural Watershed The “Eye of the Storm” truly lived up to its name during an incident that became known as “Punchgate.” While play-fighting in the kitchen, Ryan Thomas jokingly jabbed toward Roxanne Pallett. Roxanne immediately reacted with visible distress, later accusing Ryan of physically assaulting her in the diary room. She described the encounter as a series of “unprovoked” and “painful” punches, requesting that producers remove Ryan from the house. Producers reviewed the footage and issued Ryan a formal warning, which left him devastated and confused. The public, however, saw the footage clearly and realized that Ryan had barely touched her. This sparked a national outcry, with over 25,000 people complaining to the broadcasting regulator, Ofcom. The incident raised serious questions about the ethics of reality TV and the power of false accusations. Ryan Thomas: The Victim and the Victor Ryan Thomas handled the intense pressure of the accusations with remarkable composure and dignity. Even though he didn’t understand the full extent of the public’s support, he remained kind to his fellow housemates. He frequently broke down in tears, fearing that his career and reputation were ruined forever. His vulnerability endeared him to millions of viewers who watched the events unfold in real-time. His journey from a confused victim to a triumphant winner remains a highlight of the series. When Ryan finally learned about the public’s backing during the live shows, his relief was palpable. He eventually walked out of the house as the champion of Series 22, receiving one of the loudest cheers in the history of the show. This victory served as a powerful vindication for a man who had faced an unimaginable ordeal. Roxanne Pallett: The Fall of an Actress The backlash against Roxanne Pallett was swift and severe. After hearing the “Get Roxanne Out” chants from the live crowd, she chose to leave the house voluntarily. She later appeared in a sit-down interview with Emma Willis, where she admitted she had “got it wrong.” Roxanne described herself as the most hated girl in Britain and apologized for the damage she caused to Ryan’s life. The fallout from “Punchgate” essentially ended Roxanne’s career in the United Kingdom. She lost numerous professional engagements, including her radio show and various acting roles. Consequently, she stepped away from the limelight and eventually moved to the United States to start a new life. This story serves as a cautionary tale about the consequences of behavior within the intense environment of a reality TV house. The Cultural Impact of 2018: A Shift in Reality TV The events of 2018 left a lasting mark on the landscape of British television. The “Punchgate” scandal, in particular, forced producers to reconsider their duty of care toward housemates. It highlighted how easily the narrative of a person’s life can be manipulated in an isolated environment. Regulatory bodies also took a closer look at how reality shows handle sensitive allegations and mental health. Ofcom Complaints and Regulatory Influence The record-breaking number of Ofcom complaints following Series 22 led to significant changes in broadcasting guidelines. The regulator investigated Channel 5’s handling of the incident, specifically focusing on the warning given to Ryan Thomas. This case highlighted the need for transparency when producers have video evidence that contradicts a participant’s claims. Future reality shows adopted stricter protocols for intervening in disputes between contestants. Additionally, the incident sparked a wider conversation about the “Believe Women” movement and the nuances of false reporting. It reminded the public that while we must support victims, we also need to value evidence and due process. This cultural moment influenced how media outlets reported on similar controversies in the following years. The 2018 season remains a primary case study for students of media ethics and television production. The Final Chapter for Channel 5 Shortly after the conclusion of Series 22, Channel 5 announced the cancellation of both Big Brother and Celebrity Big Brother. The network felt the show had reached its natural conclusion after seven years on the channel. Many fans felt a sense of sadness, as the 2018 seasons had been some of the most exciting in recent memory. The show ended on a high note in terms of drama, even if the ratings had declined since the Channel 4 era. The decision to end the show allowed the format to “rest” and regain its value in the eyes of the public. It also paved the way for a new generation of reality shows like Love Island to dominate the summer schedules. However, the unique social experiment of Big Brother remained unmatched in its ability to generate national conversation. Fans spent the next several years campaigning for the show’s return to a major network. Where Are They Now? 2026 Edition Looking back from 2026, many of the 2018 housemates have seen their lives change significantly. Some have enjoyed continued success in the spotlight, while others have retreated to more private lives. The impact of their time in the Big Brother house continues to influence their careers and public perception today. Ryan Thomas: A Hero’s Continued Success Ryan Thomas remains a beloved figure in the British entertainment industry in 2026. Following his win, he starred in a heartwarming travel series with his brothers titled Mancs in Mumbai. He also proved his athletic prowess by winning Dancing on Ice in 2024, showing his enduring popularity with the voting public. Ryan often speaks about how the 2018 scandal taught him the importance of resilience and family support. He has also built a successful career as a social media influencer and brand ambassador. His genuine personality and the “nice guy” image he projected during the scandal continue to serve him well. Ryan manages to balance his professional life with his role as a dedicated father and husband. He stands as one of the most successful “graduates” of the Celebrity Big Brother franchise. Courtney Act: Drag Queen Extraordinaire and Activist Shane Jenek, or Courtney Act, continues to be a powerful voice for the LGBTQ+ community in 2026. She has hosted multiple television shows, including the groundbreaking bisexual dating series The Bi Life. Courtney also competed in the Australian version of Dancing with the Stars, finishing as a runner-up. Her career spans across continents, with successful tours in both the UK and Australia. Beyond entertainment, Shane uses his platform to advocate for anti-vilification laws and human rights. He remains one of the most articulate and respected figures in the drag world. His victory in 2018 paved the way for other drag performers to enter the mainstream media landscape. Shane continues to challenge societal norms and educate audiences through his art and activism. The Aftermath for Roxanne Pallett Roxanne Pallett has largely stayed away from the British media since the 2018 controversy. She moved to the United States and married Jason Carrion, a former contestant on Married at First Sight. Roxanne occasionally shares updates about her life, emphasizing her journey of self-reflection and healing. She has spoken about the mental health struggles she faced following the national backlash. In recent years, she has expressed a desire to move past her identity as a “reality TV villain.” While she has not returned to mainstream acting in the UK, she appears to have found peace in her private life abroad. The public’s memory of the “Punchgate” incident has softened over time, but it remains a defining moment of her public life. Her story highlights the extreme volatility of reality television fame. The Big Brother Revival (2024–2026) The legacy of the 2018 seasons played a major role in the successful revival of Big Brother on ITV in 2024. Producers learned valuable lessons about cast diversity and the importance of mental health support. The new seasons have attempted to recapture the social experiment aspect of the original show while avoiding the pitfalls of the past. How 2018 Influenced the ITV Reboot The success of Courtney Act in Series 21 proved that audiences enjoy seeing intelligent, diverse voices. Consequently, the ITV reboot has focused on casting people from a wide range of backgrounds and viewpoints. The show also implemented much stricter “duty of care” protocols to protect housemates from the kind of psychological distress Ryan Thomas experienced. Fans have welcomed this more modern and responsible approach to reality television. The 2025 Celebrity Big Brother, won by Jack P. Shepherd, showed that the appetite for the show is still strong. Producers now strike a better balance between entertainment and the well-being of the participants. The 2018 seasons served as a bridge between the “Wild West” era of reality TV and the more regulated environment we see today. Big Brother continues to evolve, but it will always owe a debt to the dramatic events of 2018 Detailed FAQs on Celebrity Big Brother 2018 1. Who won Celebrity Big Brother in January 2018? Shane Jenek, performing as the drag queen Courtney Act, won Series 21. He defeated former Member of Parliament Ann Widdecombe in the final vote. Shane’s win celebrated the message of acceptance and progress that defined the “Year of the Woman” theme. 2. What was the “Year of the Woman” theme about? The theme celebrated 100 years since women first gained the right to vote in the UK. The show launched with an all-female cast and focused on female empowerment and social change. Men joined the house a few days later to complete the social experiment. 3. What happened during the “Punchgate” scandal in Series 22? Roxanne Pallett accused Ryan Thomas of punching her repeatedly and unprovoked during a play-fight in the kitchen. Video evidence showed that Ryan had made very little contact and had no malicious intent. The public supported Ryan, while Roxanne faced massive criticism for her false accusation. 4. How many complaints did Ofcom receive regarding the Roxanne and Ryan incident? Ofcom received over 25,000 complaints from the viewing public after the incident aired. Most complainants felt that Roxanne had unfairly targeted Ryan and that producers should have handled the situation better. This remains one of the highest complaint totals in UK television history. 5. Why did Channel 5 cancel Celebrity Big Brother after 2018? Channel 5 decided to end the show because they felt the format needed a break and the ratings were declining. The 2018 seasons were the final ones to air on the network before the show’s five-year hiatus. ITV eventually revived the show in 2024. 6. Where is Ryan Thomas now in 2026? Ryan Thomas remains a successful television personality and influencer in the UK. He recently won Dancing on Ice in 2024 and continues to make regular media appearances. He lives a happy life with his family and has fully recovered from the 2018 scandal. 7. Has Roxanne Pallett returned to acting in the UK? Roxanne Pallett has not returned to mainstream acting or television in the United Kingdom since the controversy. She moved to the United States, where she lives with her husband and focuses on her personal life. She has largely avoided the public eye for several years. 8. Who hosted the Celebrity Big Brother 2018 seasons? Emma Willis hosted the main live shows for both Series 21 and Series 22 on Channel 5. Rylan Clark-Neal hosted the spin-off show, Big Brother’s Bit on the Side. Both presenters received praise for how they handled the difficult topics that arose during the year. 9. Who were some other famous housemates in 2018? Other notable housemates included Hollywood actress Kirstie Alley, former MP Ann Widdecombe, and Boyzone singer Shane Lynch. The cast also featured American star Malika Haqq and psychic Sally Morgan. These diverse lineups ensured high entertainment value throughout the year. 10. How did Shane Jenek (Courtney Act) use his victory? Shane used his win to further his career as an entertainer and activist for LGBTQ+ rights. He hosted his own dating show, The Bi Life, and toured the world with his drag performances. Shane remains a highly respected figure in the global drag community today. 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