Just a couple months ago, the notion of Big Brother returning this summer for its 22nd season seemed impossible. Suddenly, rumors began to swirl that the hit series would in fact return amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. Soon, things got crazier as it was announced that Big Brother‘s 22nd season would actually be Big Brother: All Stars, a long-awaited milestone for show. And now, as the pandemic continues to rear its ugly head in the outside world, 16 returning houseguests are competing against one another for a $500,000 grand prize inside the Big Brother house. Of course, things look a little different this year, as CBS takes strides to protect the players, as well as the crew, from COVID-19.
In some ways, Big Brother is the perfect show to shoot during the pandemic. After all, contestants are effectively quarantined from the outside world throughout their time in the house. But while the players’ protection is self-evident, CBS still has an entire crew to worry about, not to mention beloved host Julie Chen Moonves. The solution for the crew is not unlike that of the cast. Just as the contestants are living inside the Big Brother house, the show’s crew is living in a bubble right next door! They are sleeping in RVs and are rotating on a monthly basis.
According to TMZ, was the first to report on the crew’s COVID-19 bubble, but during the live premiere, Julie revealed several other precautions that the show is taking. Prior to entering the house, each contestant quarantined for two weeks and received testing for COVID-19. They all tested negative, as did Julie. The host has noted, however, that more than 16 houseguests were prepared to enter the house, and some were unable due to testing positive for the virus. On set, each contestant wore a mask and maintained a safe distance from Julie. They were allowed to remove their masks upon entering the house. CBS also noted that contestants would be unable to hug or come into close contact with Julie when voted out of the game.
Fans have also noted a surprising lack of diary room calls thus far on the live feeds. Perhaps that could change in due time, but it is highly possible that Big Brother is reducing the amount of interaction between cast and crew. This change could be one of many that subtly impact gameplay throughout the season.
While there is clear risk associated with any venture in this current moment, Big Brother seems poised for success due to the various precautions taken. It will be worth monitoring the situation in the weeks to come, but for now, Big Brother All Stars seems to have hit the ground running.
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