Based on the Big Brother concept created by John de Mol Jr., Pinoy Big Brother (PBB) premiered in the Philippines in 2005 on ABS-CBN.
The show was introduced to the viewers featuring a group of contestants (housemates) living together in a house (Bahay ni Kuya) isolated from the outside world. They are constantly monitored by cameras and microphones, with a disembodied voice called “Kuya” (Big Brother) giving them instructions, challenges, and tasks.
Housemates compete for a cash prize and other rewards through a series of challenges, nominations, and public eviction votes. The last remaining housemate is declared the winner.
Pinoy Big Brother has been a huge success in the Philippines, airing 17 seasons so far. It’s known for its dramatic moments, challenges, and housemate relationships. The show has also launched the careers of many Filipino celebrities.
The iconic, and probably the most popular house in the country, is opening its doors once again on July 20.
The show’s beloved hosts, known as “Pamilya ni Kuya,” will also return. Kim Chiu, Robi Domingo, Enchong Dee, Melai Cantiveros, Bianca Gonzalez, and Alexa Ilacad are all set to guide the new housemates.
“It’s incredible that PBB has lasted for 19 years and all of us have been part of it. To those who continue to audition and believe in Pinoy Big Brother, thank you for your trust. PBB has introduced countless personalities and reflects the lives of Filipinos, earning its title as the teleserye of real life,” said the TV host during the reality show’s press conference.
Enchong said in turn: “I think PBB has covered the entire Philippines, but the Philippines also reaches out to us. It’s a mutually beneficial relationship between our audience and the PBB team.”
Melai, a previous PBB Big Winner, described PBB as a Filipino tradition and Bahay ni Kuya as unique.
“With only 12 housemates allowed in per year, it’s like wanting to visit and experience the power of emotions inside Bahay ni Kuya,” she said.
Alexa, the new show host, shared, “I am Kuya’s GenZ Bestie Online. My role is to offer fresh perspectives and convey Gen Z values and opinions to online audiences. Since my season focused heavily online, I hope to engage the online audience as well.”
This year, a total of 35,906 aspiring housemates auditioned through StarHunt, ABS-CBN’s audition platform. But only a select few will have the rare opportunity to live inside the PBB house and become part of the show’s 11th season.
From July 15 to 19, viewers will also get to know Kuya’s new housemates as one housemate will be revealed per day during “Star Hunt: The Audition Show,” where the public can witness the journey of thousands of aspiring housemates and Star Magic artist hopefuls.
For 19 years, Pinoy Big Brother has introduced to the public different personalities who reflect the true spirit of the Filipino. The show has changed the lives of housemates from different editions and made a lasting impact on viewers for celebrating the unique traits of Filipinos.
