Big Brother Winners Then and Now: A Look into the Lives of the Reality TV Stars
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Julie Chen Moonves is set to crown the winner of Big Brother season 27, with finalists Vince Panaro, Morgan Pope and Ashley Hollis vying for the $750,000 grand prize. The reality show, based on the Dutch series of the same name, has seen 26 winners take home the jackpot over the years, including the most recent victor, Chelsie Baham, who won in October 2024.
Keeping in line with Baham’s wish to give back to the community, let’s delve into what the previous winners of Big Brother have been up to post their wins. From Eddie McGee, the very first season’s champion, who transitioned into an acting career, to Dan Gheesling, a teacher turned reality star who now creates gaming content on YouTube and Twitch, the path to success diverges for each winner.
Lisa Donahue, the first female winner of the show, has now transitioned into a career as a photographer in Los Angeles. On the other hand, Maggie Ausburn, who took the top spot in season 6, has chosen to step away from the limelight, leading a private life after her triumph on the show.
Season 7 winner, Mike ‘Boogie’ Malin, has faced legal troubles post his victory, with incidents ranging from felony stalking charges to a recent arrest for shoplifting. Contrastingly, Derrick Levasseur, who emerged victorious in season 16, transitioned from a police officer to founding his private investigator firm and hosting crime-related podcasts post his reality TV stint.
Looking at more recent winners, Xavier Prather, the first Black champion of season 23, went on to launch his virtual law practice, while Taylor Hale, the winner of season 24, has also ventured into content hosting alongside past winner Derrick Levasseur. Their journeys post the show highlight the diverse paths that Big Brother winners have taken in pursuit of their dreams.
As the world eagerly awaits the crowning of the latest Big Brother victor, it’s evident that the impact of the reality show extends far beyond the confinements of the Big Brother house. Each winner’s story is a testament to the opportunities and challenges that come with fame and fortune, showcasing the resilience and determination required to navigate the post-reality TV landscape.