'Big Brother' lacked identity at the start and in truth, its longevity was extremely debatable. However, in time, Julie Chen and the show were able to change the narrative. The show is still running to this day, with a very loyal fanbase. However, this doesn't mean fans aren't complaining about the show - in truth, the hit reality show has faced some controversy in the past.
Throughout the article, we'll take a look at some questionable moments, especially when it comes to previous competitions. We'll even feature an example of a contestant calling a certain competition rigged, as a way to protect a certain cast member.
It seems like the production of the show has more control than most would think. Let's delve into some of the more head-scratching moments from the show, both regarding comps and Diary Room ordeals.
There Were Several Questionable Comps In The Past
Hardcore 'Big Brother' fans are well aware, the show has had some questionable competitions in the past. Some have favored certain players and in addition, the timing of certain comps has been a little head-scratching.
Let's take 'BB' alum Paul, and how he was given three-week immunity... fans on Reddit debated the twist, claiming it was all done to keep him on the show.
"Paul is not able to evict himself. Instead, he has the power to keep 8 people of his choosing safe from eviction with the friendship bracelets, basically setting up off the bat with a majority alliance. The next week, Cody is HOH, but unbeknownst to him, Paul (the only returning houseguest) was given THREE WEEKS IMMUNITY WITH ZERO PUNISHMENT by America aka production, and he's still able to compete in (and win) comps despite literally not needing to."
Other discussed comps by the fans included the first comp in 'BB11' to crown the first HOH, Pandora's Box during 'BB13', and who can forget the MVP Twist during 'BB15'.
However, a certain contestant grabbed all the headlines when she bashed the show for a particular competition. According to the former player, 'BB' went in scramble mode to save the player.
Frankie Grande's Battle Of The Block Win Might Be The Most Tainted
Ah yes, a classic 'Big Brother' strategy, eliminate a certain housemate by the back door. That was the setup for Frankie Grande during season 16. However, according to Christine, this didn't take place due to the fact that 'Big Brother' rigged the Battle of the Black comp.
According to Christine, once it was made evident that Frankie was going to be backdoored, the production crew went in a tailspin, changing the game design completely for the Battle of the Block competition. According to the former player, this was done to ensure that Frankie would stay safe since he was a popular player.
The outcome was exactly that, and Frankie was able to stay in the game. Who really knows what went down.
What we do know, is that production has been caught tampering time and time again.
Former 'BB21' player Kemi was also revealed as such. Behind the scenes, the show might be scripting the narrative more than meets the eye.
The Show's Producing Has Also Been Questioned
Kemi made a bold declaration, stating that the producers were basically telling her how to act during her time in the Diary Room.
"They were like, Oh, why don’t you, like, wag your finger and be like, 'Uh uh girlfriend.' I’m like, 'I don’t even talk like that, so maybe try again, Christine.' And she was like, 'Oh, I mean, I just thought that was an option.' Why are you trying to -- I literally don’t talk like that, so, like, what are you trying to do?"
Reps of the show admitted, the show was over-stepping at that moment. According to Cinema Blend, the President of CBS Kelly Kahl would also issue a statement.
"In terms of how people are represented, the vast majority of time we are very happy with how they are represented. Most people who have been on those shows speak very fondly of their experience. I’m not sure how much better we can edit that show. There are thousands of hours condensed down to 42 minutes per episode. We are not able to show every single thing on the show. We strive to show a good representation of what happens."
We'll never really know what's going on behind the scenes but it seems as though the show has more control than most realize.
