Big Brother made its return last night, drawing in close to 1.5 million Australians who tuned in at some point during the 103‑minute broadcast. Viewers were eager to see if things at Dreamworld remained as they were in the 2000s, when the series was known as a social experiment rather than just another reality show.
Things appear to have changed little. The premiere launched the new season smoothly, reintroducing the familiar dynamic that once captivated the audience. This time, the focus seemed equally on nostalgia and entertainment.
Host Mel Tracina looked at ease in her new role, though she seemed slightly surprised by the enthusiastic crowd gathered outside the Big Brother house. Each of her announcements — big or small — was met with deafening cheers, reminiscent of pop concert hysteria.
The passionate fans embraced even newly introduced housemates, chanting their names moments after they were revealed. Their energy recalled the early days of the show, when it felt as if the entire country was part of the Big Brother universe.
Among the contestants is Bruce, 25, a man with very traditional values. He hopes to be married with children by 30 and describes himself as:
"A firm believer in having a 'trad wife' who stays home with the kids."
Bruce sports a Jesus-piece and carries a look reminiscent of an '80s cricketer. Observers are already predicting that his outlook might make him a three‑time divorcé in the future.
The revived Big Brother blends nostalgia and spectacle, bringing familiar drama, devoted fans, and new characters with old-school ideals into Australia’s modern TV landscape.