When Nick Bateman joined the Big Brother house in 2000, he had no idea what was in store for him. After 35 days, he was asked to leave due to his attempts to manipulate nominations. Bateman’s actions earned him the nickname “Nasty Nick” and his face was splashed across tabloid front pages. Bateman reflects on the unexpected fame that came with being on the show, stating that he wasn’t prepared for the transition from an ordinary person to a well-known figure overnight. The revival of Big Brother by ITV brings increased awareness of the millions of viewers watching the contestants. The drama and controversy from the first series of Big Brother ignited our fascination with real-life tension. Producers on reality TV shows have been tasked with keeping the audience engaged ever since. Bateman notes that back in the early days of reality TV, there was little support or duty of care for contestants once the show ended. However, recent tragedies in reality TV have highlighted the need for improved welfare packages and support for contestants. As the ethical considerations around reality TV continue to evolve, striking a balance between entertainment and welfare becomes crucial. Professor John Oates explains that generating strong emotions in participants must be handled carefully with respect to their dignity, autonomy, and privacy. While reality TV can have long-term effects on contestants, it also caters to the voyeuristic impulses of viewers. Managed well, reality TV can provide insight into how people manage their lives and handle stress. The return of Big Brother will bring authenticity and rawness, prioritizing the welfare of contestants while still creating entertaining content. The success of the revival will depend on the casting, as the right mix of contestants is key. Bateman suggests that producers should go back to basics and seek input from former housemates who have firsthand experience with the show’s dynamics and tricks.