The year is 1999, the World Wide Web has only been available to the public for six years, the millennium is closing in, and in the Netherlands, a show is launching that will change the face of reality TV as we know it. Big Brother walked so Love Island and its ilk could run, but the world's most famous reality show still has some legs in it yet, as this year saw the US version of the show run for its 25th season.
One of the most entertaining (and indeed controversial) international versions of the show comes out of the UK, where the 20th season is well underway already making headlines for contestants' behavior. But, how can you go about watching the UK version of the show when you're in the States? Stick with us and we'll tell you.
The History of Big Brother
Big Brother is a reality television show that originated in the Netherlands in 1999. Created by John de Mol, the show's concept involves a group of people living together in a house under constant surveillance, isolated from the outside world. The participants, known as housemates, are filmed 24/7, and their interactions, alliances, and conflicts are broadcast to a global audience. The show's title is derived from George Orwell's novel 1984, where the government is symbolized by a figure known as Big Brother who watches over and controls the citizens.
Following its success in the Netherlands, Big Brother quickly spread to other countries, adapting its format to suit different cultures and audiences. The United Kingdom launched its version in 2000, and the concept gained international popularity. The show's structure typically includes weekly evictions, where housemates are voted out by their peers or the audience.
The format of the show has evolved over the years, incorporating celebrity editions, special themes, and twists to maintain viewer engagement. While facing occasional controversies, Big Brother remains a pioneering force in reality television, shaping the genre and influencing subsequent shows worldwide.
How to Watch Big Brother UK for Free
If you're in the States and craving some Big Brother, then the current UK season is going to be a great place to start. But how do you go about accessing that content? Well, a VPN is your friend here. The series is currently shown on ITV in the UK, and ITV just so happen to have their own (free) streaming service.
Here's a step-by-step of how to start watching:
- Sign up for a streaming-friendly VPN, such as ExpressVPN (it's our top pick from our best VPNs list!)
- Download the app on your preferred device (compatible with Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, and more).
- Open the app and connect to any server in the United Kingdom
- Sign-up for ITVX (the service is free, don't worry)
- Clear your cache if you encounter any issues
- Enjoy the show
Editor's Note: You'll need a UK postcode (zipcode) to sign up for ITVX, but it isn't checked, so you can use any random location such as 10 Downing Street's SW1A 2AA.
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