Big Brother

Big Brother was a reality TV series shown in the Czech Republic, broadcast by TV Nova. It is also known as Velký Bratr. The Czech version is based on the popular Dutch Big Brother international television series produced by Endemol where a number of contestants, live in an isolated house for a certain period of time. At all times, housemates are under the control of Big Brother, a rule-enforcing authority figure who monitors the behaviour of the housemates, sets tasks and punishments, and provides the only link to the outside world for the contestants. The premiere saw thirteen housemates originally enter the house, with four additional people entering at various point during the programme. The show caused controversity when contestant Filip Trojovský was recognized as gay porn star Tommy Hansen. Also a commercial model, Trjovský starred in a TV spot for a German milk-company prior to entering the house. A German tabloid revealed the scandal, causing the spot to be taken off air. When his past became known, Trojovský became the first person to be evicted, and as a result, the ratings quickly fell. He was quickly reinstated as a housemate a few weeks later. In the end, Trojovský, who started a heterosexual relationship in the house, finished in third place.

Directed by —, Big Brother leans on a strong ensemble — Leoš Mareš, Eva Decastelo, Lejla Abbasová — to carry a story that balances spectacle with character.

The series landed with audiences for its craft and performances, and remains one of the most talked-about reality titles of 2005.