In a dramatic finale that captivated audiences, Jack P. Shepherd has been crowned the winner of Celebrity Big Brother UK 2025. The Coronation Street star, known for his long-standing role as David Platt, triumphed over a competitive field of finalists, including drag artist Danny Beard and American singer JoJo Siwa.
The live finale, which aired on ITV1 on April 25, 2025, was hosted by AJ Odudu and Will Best, who kept viewers on the edge of their seats as they revealed the results of the public vote. After three weeks of intense challenges and emotional moments, the final six contestants included Shepherd, Beard, Siwa, Chris Hughes, comedian Donna Preston, and pop star Chesney Hawkes.
During the final week, tensions ran high as the show experienced a shocking triple eviction. On April 22, Angellica Bell, Ella Rae Wise, and EastEnders star Patsy Palmer were sent packing, leaving the remaining contestants to battle it out for the crown. Palmer, who had expressed her dissatisfaction with the show, seemed relieved to leave, stating, "I was ready to go home." This sentiment resonated with fans who had seen her struggle throughout the series.
As the finale unfolded, the hosts announced that over one million votes had been cast, showcasing the intense public interest in this year’s competition. Shepherd, visibly stunned by his victory, exclaimed, "I can't believe it, I am blown away. I didn't expect it!" He had previously thought he would finish in fifth place, especially after seeing JoJo Siwa, who he believed would win, leave the competition.
In terms of final placements, the results were as follows: Chris Hughes finished sixth, followed by Chesney Hawkes in fifth, Donna Preston in fourth, JoJo Siwa in third, and Danny Beard as the runner-up. The moment of victory for Shepherd was met with cheers from the audience, and he could hardly contain his excitement as he left the house, repeatedly calling the experience "crazy."
Shepherd's journey on the show was not without its controversies. The series had begun with the shocking presence of Hollywood actor Mickey Rourke, who was removed after just six days due to a series of unacceptable behaviors, including using homophobic slurs and making aggressive comments towards fellow contestants. Rourke's exit came after he confronted Chris Hughes during a shopping task, leading to a formal warning and ultimately his ejection from the house.
Throughout the series, viewers witnessed various dynamics among the contestants. Siwa, who has been open about her sexual identity, declared during the show that she identifies as queer rather than strictly lesbian, stating, "I'm switching letters!" This revelation added an emotional layer to her experience in the house, particularly in her close friendship with Hughes.
As the show progressed, fans became increasingly invested in the evolving relationships within the house, especially between Hughes and Siwa. Their bond, which included playful moments and heartfelt conversations, drew both admiration and criticism from viewers. Some fans expressed concern about their interactions, particularly given Siwa's relationship outside the show.
In the lead-up to the finale, betting odds indicated that Beard was the favorite to win, with Ladbrokes placing him at 4/7 odds. However, as the results unfolded, it became clear that the public had rallied behind Shepherd, who had become a beloved figure during the series.
This season of Celebrity Big Brother has been marked by its dramatic twists and the colorful personalities of its contestants. The show, which launched earlier this month with an impressive viewership of approximately 2.7 million, has since garnered over 20 million streams on ITVX, reflecting its popularity.
The legacy of Celebrity Big Brother continues to grow, with applications already open for the next series. Fans eager to participate in the social experiment can look forward to more drama, laughter, and unexpected moments in the future.
As the dust settles on this year’s competition, Jack P. Shepherd stands as the reigning champion, joining the ranks of previous winners and solidifying his status as a fan favorite. The show’s blend of entertainment, tension, and genuine connections has once again proven to be a winning formula, keeping audiences engaged and eager for more.
