Warning: This story contains spoilers regarding the results of Celebrity Big Brother
Jack P Shepherd, best known for his long-standing role in Coronation Street, has been named the winner of this year’s Celebrity Big Brother.
Shepherd, who has portrayed David Platt for a quarter of a century, triumphed over fellow finalists, including drag performer Danny Beard, American media personality JoJo Siwa, and television figure Chris Hughes.
The final episode on ITV also featured comedian Donna Preston and singer Chesney Hawkes among this year’s notable contenders.
Moments after the winner was announced, Shepherd, clearly taken aback by the result, repeatedly declared it “crazy” as he exited the house to meet presenters AJ Odudu and Will Best.
A long-time Big Brother enthusiast, Shepherd told viewers: “I can’t believe it, I am blown away. I didn’t expect it.”
He recalled, “I thought I’d easily finish fifth, until one by one, my housemates were sent home during the finale.”
“I thought, surely not,” he continued. “When JoJo left, I was stunned—I had tipped her as the likely champion.”
Reflecting on his experience, Shepherd shared: “Even when facing reprimand, I was happily heading to the diary room. I genuinely loved every minute of it.”
This season attracted attention early on when Oscar-nominee Mickey Rourke was revealed as a housemate, though he departed just days after due to “inappropriate language” and “unacceptable conduct.”
Rourke received a warning after Siwa alleged he made “homophobic” remarks, ultimately leading to his removal following a clash with former Love Island contestant Hughes.
During the show, Hughes and ex-Dance Moms star Siwa, 21, developed a close friendship. Siwa made headlines herself by stating her experience prompted her to identify as queer rather than lesbian.
“I’m switching letters!” she remarked to Beard, referencing her move from L to Q in LGBTQ.
“I always described myself as a lesbian but, after being here, I realised: ‘I’m not a lesbian, I’m queer.’ I think that’s really cool.”
Other contestants eliminated earlier in the series included broadcaster Trisha Goddard, Olympic athlete Daley Thompson, and EastEnders veteran Patsy Palmer.
The star-studded cast also featured former MP Michael Fabricant, presenter Angellica Bell and TOWIE alum Ella Rae Wise.
Ultimately, it was Shepherd who captivated audiences and secured the title.
Now 37, Shepherd has been a familiar face as David, the son of Gail, since he was 12. Despite speculation over his future, he has expressed his intention to remain on Coronation Street for another 25 years.
This marks the second celebrity season of Big Brother broadcast on ITV following its 2023 revival. The series premiere earlier this month drew an audience of approximately 2.7 million viewers.
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