Ananova:

Audience ratings for Big Brother 5 have dropped sharply after 6.7 million people tuned in to watch the launch night.

Friday's programme followed the last ever Friends show, which attracted a record 8.6m viewers.

But Saturday night ratings for Big Brother had dropped to 3.4 million, and 3.3 million on Bank Holiday Monday.

Housemates this year include a political activist and an air steward who entered the house wearing a thong.

This year the contenders will be battling it out for £100,000 prize money, which Big Brother has the power to reduce for failed tasks.

Producers have also introduced a tougher regime, including too few beds, which has lead it to be dubbed "evil" Big Brother.

The changes were in response to disappointing reviews and ratings for Big Brother four, which was eventually won by Orkney fish trader Cameron Stout.