Big Brother launch attracts 5.4m

[Gavin]

The first show of the ninth series of Big Brother has pulled in an audience of 5.4 million people.

Last year's launch show drew 6.2 million viewers. Thursday night's figures also included those watching the time-delayed Channel 4+1 service.

The opening show saw a record 16 contestants enter the house, including a blind comic and a "secret" couple.

The series' first twist will see one half of the couple "married" to another female contestant on Sunday night.

This year's Big Brother house boasts a luxury bedroom, as well as a dormitory-style room with short beds and scratchy blankets.

The luxury room features eight double beds, complete with velvet cushions, a walk-in wardrobe and burgundy and gold curtains.

[Sugaree]

For a second there I thought you meant the VT Big Brother in Tom's diary haha. I think we just ended a season here in America. I think it was about 2 or 3 months ago. I'm not sure if we had the blind comic but I do know we had a secret couple.

[Gavin]

It's not what it used to be when they first started with BB

[redcar]

I might watch this series. I tend to watch every second series.

[Gavin]

They have some interesting characters this year, so its well worth watching i think.