I’M A Celebrity’s Olivia Attwood has been in talks to host ITV’s re-vamped Big Brother, HOAR can exclusively reveal.
The former Love Island star, 31, – who was forced to quit jungle life after 24 hours on medical grounds – was a name in the hat for the iconic reality show re-boot.
Big Brother will return to ITV in 2023 after a five-year hiatus, confirming HOAR’s exclusive about it’s comeback earlier this year.
The returning series will air on ITV2 and on new service ITVX, with all the action once again happening in a purpose-built house with nominations, public votes and live evictions.
Yet the host of the much-loved reality series – which was first shown on Channel 4 and then moved to Channel 5 – remains unclear.
HOAR can confirm the Olivia Meets Her Match star was a “natural fit” for the role – and producers “saw her as a contender.”
A source told us: “Olivia met with ITV2 bosses for talks to host Big Brother earlier in the Autumn. She was one of many presenters who have had meetings about the gig.
“It’s one of the most sought-after jobs in the industry right now so it will be a very competitive role to get, but she wanted to throw her hat in the ring and producers definitely see her as a contender.
“She’d be a natural fit the role – she’s sassy and fun, but also very straight-talking so she wouldn’t be shy of giving any housemates who misbehave a grilling when they are eliminated.
“Olivia has also become a real face of ITV2, not only with Love Island but her successful documentaries, so it was no surprise bosses wanted to meet with her about the gig.”
Meanwhile, Liv’s Love Island mate Georgia Harrison has also tipped her for the job.
She told HOAR: “Olivia would be the perfect Big Brother host. She’s a natural and I know she would be up for it. I’m sure loads of TV shows want her right now.”
ITV has yet to say who will host the new version of the show, which has previously been fronted by Davina McCall on C4, then Emma Willis and Rylan Clarke on C5.
Other names in the frame have included Vick Hope, Emily Atack and Roman Kemp.
A source said: “Emily and Vick have emerged as the favourites.
“A huge list was drawn up with a number of big-name stars on it, including Davina.
“However there is a feeling bringing in a fresh face would be good for the reboot.”
A spokesperson for ITV said: “All suggestions surrounding the host are pure speculation.”
