In 2018, a 19-year-old Cameron Cole etched his name into reality TV history by winning what was believed to be the final season of Big Brother on Channel 5. Fast forward seven years, and the beloved show has made a triumphant return on ITV, with a third season set to air later this year. Yet, it’s Cameron’s transformative journey—both during and after his time in the iconic Big Brother house—that continues to captivate fans and inspire countless others.
Cameron’s time on Big Brother was defined by a deeply personal milestone that resonated with viewers worldwide. In one of television’s most poignant moments, he bravely came out as gay to his housemates, a decision that marked a turning point in his life. Having only shared this truth with his best friend prior to entering the house, Cameron had prepared letters for his family, which he still holds close today. “I was terrified it would go down badly,” he admitted in a recent interview with Metro. “I thought the other contestants and the public might not accept me.”
To his surprise, the response was overwhelmingly supportive. Fans and housemates alike rallied behind him, showering him with love and encouragement. Reflecting on that moment, Cameron shared, “Once you come out on TV, you can’t really do it again. I don’t even think about hiding it now—it’s out there, and I’m so grateful for that. If I hadn’t done it, I probably wouldn’t be living my true self today.”
Cameron’s authenticity and vulnerability won the hearts of viewers, ultimately leading to his “accidental” victory and a £100,000 prize. Speaking to host Emma Willis at the time, he admitted he hadn’t planned how to spend the money, saying, “I hadn’t really thought that far ahead.” Unlike other Big Brother alumni like Alison Hammond and Josie Gibson, who embraced the spotlight, Cameron chose a quieter path after his win. He pursued a degree in psychology in London and entered a long-term relationship with his boyfriend, whom he met in the city. While he keeps his personal life private, his focus on self-discovery and growth is evident.
In 2023, marking five years since his victory, Cameron took to Instagram to share a heartfelt reflection on his Big Brother experience. Alongside nostalgic photos from the show, he wrote, “I cannot believe it’s been five years since the best 53 days of my life. I’m still so grateful to have done something as life-changing as Big Brother. I lived my dream, and it never disappointed.”
Cameron described the house as his “safe haven,” a place where he felt he truly belonged for the first time. “It was the safest and happiest I’ve ever been and will ever be,” he wrote. “The memories made I’ll never forget or get bored of remembering. I’ll always miss it and crave the feeling and experience again.” He expressed gratitude for the housemates, the iconic Big Brother voice, the tasks, and the diary room chats that made his time in the house unforgettable.
Cameron’s journey didn’t end with Big Brother. His win gave him more than just a cash prize—it gave him “hope and reason to live and laugh again.” He credits the show with transforming his life, turning a “sad boy with no hope” into someone with purpose and joy. While he misses the Big Brother house every day, he’s thrilled that the show’s revival means others can experience its magic. “I’m so glad Big Brother is back, and I won’t be the last winner forever,” he shared.
Seven years after his historic win, Cameron Cole is almost unrecognizable—not in appearance, but in the confidence and authenticity he’s embraced. From a nervous 19-year-old stepping into the Big Brother house to a man living his truth, his story is a testament to the power of vulnerability and the enduring impact of a reality show that continues to change lives.
“Thank you to everyone who has been on this journey with me,” Cameron wrote. “I’ll never forget you, Big Brother, and I’ll forever miss you.” As the show prepares for its next chapter, Cameron’s legacy as a trailblazer and accidental champion remains as inspiring as ever.