Big Brother's Philip issues statement as he confirms absence from reunion episode

Big Brother star Philip Regan has shared the sad reason he will not be attending tonight's reunion. Last night's explosive finale saw Rochelle Rackham crowned the shock winner of this year's series after bringing plenty of drama and controversy to the show.

Seventeen contestants entered the Big Brother House this year, including Philip, who was eliminated just short of the final alongside Rhianna Collins.

He missed his appearance on the show's spin-off companion, The Group Chat, and fans wondered whether he would be in attendance at tonight's reunion episode.

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Taking to Instagram, Philip said that he would not be at the reunion due to a death in the family, and thanked fans for their support both during his time on the show and afterwards.

"I would like to take a moment to personally apologise to everyone for not being able to attend the Big Brother Group Chat or Reunion," he wrote.

"Unfortunately, due to a death in my family, we have been dealing with a very difficult and emotional time.

"Family comes first and I needed to take a step back from everything to be with my loved ones and deal with this personal loss.

"I hope you all understand that this was not a decision taken lightly and I am truly sorry."

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He continued: "I want to thank everyone who has continued to support me and your kindness has been greatly appreciated.

"Please respect my family's privacy during this difficult time. Sending love to you all, Queen Of Scotty Road."

Several fans and loved ones offered their condolences in the comment section, including his fellow housemate Rhianna, who posted a red heart.

Last night's final proved divisive among fans, with winner Rochelle reportedly experiencing boos and taunts when she left the house.

Lucinda "Twinks" Barnett came runner-up, with Yasmin, Sam Keen, Lynx Noumey, and Catrin Richards taking third, fourth, fifth, and sixth place, respectively.

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In her statement following her win, Rochelle said: "Thank you so much to every single person that voted for me. I can't tell you what this means. It's absolutely incredible.

"I don't know who you are, but thank you so, so much. And I hope that I entertained you because I worked bloody hard in that house. And also, it looks like I've got the last word because I'm winner, winner, chicken dinner."

Big Brother: The Reunion airs on ITV1 and ITVX at 9pm on Friday, 6 November.

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Freelance Reporter, Digital Spy Rebecca is a freelance journalist who specializes in TV and film. After beginning her career as a digital entertainment journalist for the Express & Star and Shropshire Star, she embarked on a freelance career in 2021 contributing to the likes of Metro UK, The Sun, WhatCulture, Screen Rant, FilmHounds Magazine and more. Her particular field of interest is horror cinema and she has written for genre publications such as Ghouls Magazine and Moving Pictures Film Club. LinkedIn