Big Brother UK narrator Marcus Bentley shares throwback video from his ‘final’ voiceover in 2018 ahead of the show’s return

By William On Oct 8, 2023

By Lidia Burns for Mailonline

Published: 10:10 a.m. EDT, October 8, 2023 | Updated: 10:10 a.m. EDT, October 8, 2023

His voice is legendary in reality TV circles.

And Marcus Bentley took to social media to share a video of his final shot of 2018 in anticipation of Sunday’s Big Brother reboot.

The clip shows Marcus, 55, saying in his famous Geordie accent, “It’s almost time to say goodbye tonight.”

The Gateshead-born artist rose to fame in 2000 when Big Brother was launched on Channel 4.

Marcus stayed with the popular reality series during its move to Channel 5 and recorded the voice-over until its final run in 2018.

Legendary: Marcus Bentley took to social media to share a video of his final shot of 2018 ahead of the show’s launch on Sunday

Flashback: Footage shows fans of Marcus, 55, saying ‘It’s almost time to say goodbye tonight’ in his famous Geordie accent

Fans flooded the comments section to sing Marcus’ praises and say how much they missed his voice.

One commenter said, “It’s like a comfort blanket in the voice.”

Another stated that Marcus’ voice was “one of the most iconic voices ever on television”.

When the show announced its return, rumors started flying about whether Marcus would rejoin the program.

These rumors were put to rest in April when a source told The Sun: ‘It was difficult to bring Marcus back for the new era – he is simply the voice associated with Big Brother UK.’

At that time Marcus praised the show’s new trailer, saying it looks ‘so cool’ and also wished new hosts AJ Odudu and Will Best the best of luck.

Strictly star AJ and former T4 presenter Will have been announced as the hosts of a brand new reboot of Big Brother.

They will share the iconic lead role, as well as an additional nightly live show, discussing all the hot topics in the house.

Icon: Fans flooded the comments section to sing Marcus’ praises and say how much they missed his voice

Beloved: Another stated that Marcus’ voice is “one of the most iconic voices ever on television.”

Exciting: AJ Odudu and Will Best have been announced as the hosts of a brand new reboot of Big Brother

A source told MailOnline: “They have real chemistry and it was a no brainer when they were testing.”

Speaking about her new role, AJ said: “I’m so excited to finally be able to say it, yes: I’m hosting Big Brother! I couldn’t be happier.’

She added: “Following in the footsteps of some of my favorite broadcasting legends to front such an iconic show is an absolute honor – and to do it alongside my amazing friend Will is the icing on the cake.”

Will explained: “I grew up watching Big Brother so it’s a dream to have the chance to host it with my pal AJ. I can’t wait to tell some of the housemates not to swear.’

Paul Mortimer, Director of Reality Commissioning for ITV2 and ITVX, said: “AJ and Will really are our perfect match as we prepare to reintroduce Big Brother to the next generation.

“With genuine chemistry, both will bring effortless wit, charm and loads of character to their roles and we’re thrilled to be working with them both again.”

The rebooted series was originally due to air in March, but the program has been delayed due to the number of entertainment shows airing on ITV in early 2023, such as winter’s Love Island and the All Stars edition of I’m A Celebrity.. Take Me Out from here!.

An ITV spokesperson told MailOnline late last year that “due to the influx of major reality TV programs on air during the first half of 2022, we have taken the decision to move Big Brother to a more prominent time slot in the autumn.” This provides our viewers with a full calendar of great reality TV formats throughout the year.’

Big Brother: The Launch airs on ITV1, STV, ITV2 and ITVX on Sunday 8 October from 9pm.

Coming soon! Big Brother fans got their first look at the brand new house ahead of the reality show’s return on Sunday

Cosi! A replica of the iconic eye logo will serve as an outdoor seating area

Big Brother 2023: Duty of Care Protocols in full

Housemates must go through a social media blackout, take part in “respect and inclusion training” and will have access to one-on-one mental health support sessions before, during and after the show.

Respect and inclusion training will set expectations regarding language use and acceptable behavior in the Home.

Prior to filming, all housemates underwent psychological and medical assessments, including assessments by an independent physician, a mental health professional and informational reports from each housemate’s general practitioner.

Housemates were also asked to disclose in confidence any medical history or other information that would be relevant to their participation in Big Brother.

In addition, their family and friends will be asked not to post any content to their individual social media accounts during their time in the Social Media Blackout Home.

ITV also said housemates were given information about the experience of being on Big Brother including possible positive and negative implications.

Contestants also go through a series of background checks, including a social media check by an independent specialist agency.

The show’s team and other members of the editorial and production team have received training in mental health first aid and ‘respect and inclusion’.

ITV says the team set out Big Brother’s expectations for appropriate behavior and language.

Housemates are also provided with and discussed House Rules which set expectations and explain key aspects of life in the Big Brother House.

While in the Home, mental health professionals are available to the residents for ongoing support during their stay in the Home.

The Big Brother Wellbeing Team also supports friends and family with regular contact and updates.

After leaving the House of Big Brother, there will be a tailor-made training on working with social media and the press.

A mandatory session with a mental health professional will also be provided immediately after the housemate leaves the house.

Further support sessions will be provided specific to the individual needs of the resident and support will remain in place until the mental health professionals agree on an end date for each individual resident.

Ongoing contact by the head of social care will continue for a period of 14 months after the end of the series, and additional help will be offered where needed.

Big Brother UK narrator Marcus Bentley shares throwback video from his ‘final’ voiceover in 2018 ahead of the show’s return

Big Brother 2023: Duty of Care Protocols in full

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