The much-anticipated finale of Celebrity Big Brother 2025 took place on Friday night, crowning Jack P. Shepherd as the champion after weeks of drama and excitement. The live finale aired on April 25, 2025, and featured the final six housemates—Shepherd, Danny Beard, JoJo Siwa, Chris Hughes, Chesney Hawkes, and Donna Preston—who competed for public votes in a thrilling showdown.
Shepherd, known for his role as David Platt on the long-running soap Coronation Street, emerged victorious amid a whirlwind of twists and turns throughout the series. His loyal fanbase, which has supported him since he began on the show at just 12 years old, played a crucial role in securing his win. Fellow contestant Patsy Palmer, who was evicted earlier in the series, expressed her confidence in Shepherd's ability to clinch the title, stating, "I think Jack should win, and I've thought it through the whole thing. I just think you can't underestimate the power of loyal Corrie fans, and they are very loyal."
Palmer's sentiments were echoed by Trisha Goddard, another evicted housemate, who praised Shepherd's comedic timing, saying, "He doesn't say a lot, but when he does say something, it's hilarious!" Goddard also expressed her hopes for Danny Beard, a popular contestant who gained fame on RuPaul's Drag Race UK, to take home the crown.
The finale was not just a celebration of the remaining contestants but also a reflection on the journey of the entire series, which began with 13 stars entering the iconic Big Brother house nearly three weeks prior. The show, rebooted by ITV in 2023, had seen its fair share of drama, including the controversial removal of Hollywood actor Mickey Rourke after just five days due to unacceptable behavior. Rourke, who was the highest-paid contestant at £500,000, faced backlash after an incident with Chris Hughes, who was accused of playing a game due to his close relationship with JoJo Siwa.
As the live final unfolded, viewers were treated to a recap of the housemates' experiences, with highlights showcasing the friendships and rivalries that developed over the weeks. The atmosphere was electric as hosts AJ Odudu and Will Best guided the audience through the proceedings, announcing the results of the public votes in real-time.
As the night progressed, the excitement built up until the final results were revealed. The order of elimination was as follows: Chris Hughes finished in sixth place, followed by Chesney Hawkes in fifth, Donna Preston in fourth, JoJo Siwa in third, and Danny Beard in second place. Ultimately, Jack P. Shepherd was crowned the winner, much to the delight of his supporters.
For Shepherd, this victory is not just a personal achievement but also a testament to the enduring appeal of his character on Coronation Street and his ability to connect with fans. The emotional rollercoaster of Celebrity Big Brother has showcased the highs and lows of reality television, with moments of joy, laughter, and heartfelt connections.
Reflecting on his journey, Shepherd expressed gratitude for the experience, stating, "It's been an incredible journey, and I couldn't have done it without the support of my fans. This win means the world to me." His victory marks a significant moment in the history of Celebrity Big Brother, as he becomes part of the legacy of past champions.
The series has also highlighted the importance of mental health awareness, particularly through the participation of Trisha Goddard, who entered the house while battling stage four cancer. Goddard aimed to use her platform to inspire others facing similar challenges, stating, "I want to show terminal patients they should not be scared of living." Her courage and openness have resonated with viewers, adding depth to the show's narrative.
As Celebrity Big Brother 2025 draws to a close, it leaves behind a mix of emotions and unforgettable moments. The series continues to captivate audiences, proving that reality television can be both entertaining and meaningful. Fans are already looking forward to the next installment, eager to see which celebrities will take on the challenge of living together in the iconic house once again.
In the wake of the finale, discussions about the future of Celebrity Big Brother are already underway. With the show's successful return to ITV, there’s a sense of optimism about its continued relevance in the reality TV landscape. The combination of star power, emotional storytelling, and viewer engagement has solidified Celebrity Big Brother's place in the hearts of fans.
As the credits roll on this season, viewers are left with cherished memories of the housemates and their journeys. The legacy of Celebrity Big Brother continues, and with it, the anticipation for what lies ahead in future seasons.
