Celebrity Big Brother 2026 has faced a significant shake-up, just days after reports emerged claiming that its spin-off, Late and Live, had been axed. Fans of the long-running reality franchise may need to adjust their expectations, as the iconic show is set for major scheduling changes next year (The Sun).

Celebrity Big Brother Axed from ITV’s Spring 2026 Schedule

For viewers eagerly anticipating the return of Celebrity Big Brother in spring 2026, disappointment is imminent. ITV has reportedly removed the show from its traditional March-April slot, a move intended to make room for other already-commissioned programming (Digital Spy).

Since its revival in 2024, Celebrity Big Brother has consistently aired in the spring, immediately following the conclusion of Love Island: All Stars, creating a reliable annual reality TV fixture. However, in 2026, not only will the timing shift, but the show will also transition from ITV1 to ITV2, a platform reportedly better aligned with the series’ core audience demographics (The Mirror).

A source speaking to The Sun noted: “ITV has confirmed that both Celebrity Big Brother and Big Brother will air in 2026, but the news of the schedule shift for other programmes doesn’t exactly instil confidence among fans.”

Fans Question ITV’s Commitment

Concerns over the change have sparked questions about ITV’s dedication to the reality format. “Fans will fear it demonstrates a lack of commitment from ITV,” the insider added. “However, the network insists that they love AJ Odudu and Will Best as hosts and that Big Brother remains a priority reality franchise, thanks to solid ratings and impressive online streams” (The Guardian).

In a formal statement shared with ED!, ITV clarified: “We are committed to both Celebrity Big Brother and Big Brother beyond 2025, and scheduling for any new series will be confirmed in due course. The show remains a priority reality format, having recently achieved 150 million streams on ITVX.”

The statement continued: “The next series of Celebrity Big Brother will air on ITV2, as this is where the show’s core audience predominantly resides. Given a full slate of existing commissions and new formats scheduled throughout the first half of 2026, the series will be pushed to a later date” (ITV Press Office).

Spin-Off Late and Live Axed

Adding to the upheaval, ITV has reportedly decided not to continue airing the spin-off show Late and Live. Since its debut alongside the revived Big Brother and Celebrity Big Brother in 2023, the program has provided nightly exit interviews, detailed analysis of the episodes, and appearances from past housemates and celebrity guests (Radio Times).

However, industry sources suggest the spin-off will not return with either edition of the show next year, marking a significant change for long-time fans who have relied on the extra content for behind-the-scenes insights.

Looking Ahead for the Big Brother Franchise

Despite the scheduling adjustments, ITV emphasizes that the Big Brother brand remains a central part of its reality TV strategy. With AJ Odudu and Will Best returning as hosts, the network is positioning the show for continued online and on-demand success, while aligning its broadcast approach with viewing trends that increasingly favour ITV2 and streaming platforms (Broadcast).

While some viewers may be concerned by the spring delay and the loss of Late and Live, ITV’s recent record-breaking streaming numbers indicate that the franchise still commands a significant audience. The decision to move the series to ITV2 may also provide opportunities to refresh the format, attract younger viewers, and integrate more interactive and digital content ahead of the 2026 launch.