I loved the first season of Big Brother (in the U.S.). The people seemed real. The drama was not over the top. Some of the people were actually likable. All other reality shows since make me puke (at least the few that I've sampled).

and what is it with the live show and airplane noise coverup stuff

They're isolated, so unless the water's bad or something, there are no germs around to make them sick (and they're in a climate controlled clean house, so they can avoid crises of the chronic stuff like asthma or sinus as well).

I'd say the chances of someone getting sick are quite low (although I kind of remember it happening in Brazil once, and the rule being "if you can't take it for any reason you're out.")

People have had colds and things in the past - yes.

You're worried about the basic budget. There's no chance of them starving. When the housemates are on basic budget, the get given rations too. This is rice, potatoes, chickpeas, etc.

As for the airplane noise. I guess that you're watching the live feed. They play birdsong and other noises when the housemates are saying things that are a bit dodgy. Either they're saying stuff which could be seen as slander, or they're talking about stuff which could get Big Brother into trouble.

So - I guess that you're watching it this year because you know Tommy? He's doing quite well - Much better than Galloway did a couple of years ago. There's potential for windbaggery there, and he's not going to win, but he is doing suprisingly well.

seanyboy, yup. If you want a small bolus of shop-talk in re. Tommy, Scotland, and how BB is being taken, please let me know.