The switch-up allows the show to air a behind-the-scenes conversation that housemates didn't think would make screens
A BELOVED aspect of Big Brother will tonight return to the show for the first time in years in a shock shake-up as bosses throw out the rule book.
The episode will feature explosive behind-the-scenes footage from the smoker’s area - a zone not shown on air since Channel 5’s version of the programme - after action in the house forced the decision.
A closed off secret smoking area is available to housemates from the garden but is never shown on screen - until tonight
Big Brother has changed the rules to air a conversation Marcello had in the smoking area
Scenes will air of a key chat he had with Ali
CCTV cameras cover the area, which is located adjacent to the Big Brother house’s garden and accessed through a plain doorway.
But the footage is never intended for broadcast.
The Sun has learnt that bosses have taken the decision in order to accurately portray a scenario that played out in the house.
A source said: “The decision was made to show the footage in order to show the full context of a discussion between Ali and Marcello.
“Fans will be elated to see the return of the smoking area, where all the best drama has occurred over the years.
“But the move will also have tongues wagging ahead of the episode as to exactly why Big Brother has lifted its ban on using smoking area footage.”
In years gone by, some of the juiciest house drama played out in the smoking area, which was always shown when the series aired on Channel 5 and Channel 4.
But ITV decided to ditch it when they bought the show to reflect changing attitudes to smoking.
When it was revealed that ITV would not be showing the cast lighting up, bringing it in line with Love Island which also scrapped showing their smoking area, many viewers were worried the change would lead to a less entertaining series.
They were concerned catty comments and bitching could be missed.
One wrote on X: "The smoking area on Big Brother is going to be a little room with no camera? It's the end of an era."
Another said: "Strange. I thought it was supposed to be 'reality' TV? You know, showing the things ppl actually say and do? Wonder what else ITV will water out? It’s going to be a scripted snoozefest."
A third said: "It’s so silly. It’s shown after the watershed, so even if they want to pearl-clutch about cigarettes being shown, who cares after 9pm!?"
