One of the most anticipated reality shows of the summer, Big Brother, is set to return with its 26th season. As always, fans expect a lot of surprises and new twists, with AI being one of the new tools this season, as well as a new cast to root for. But one of the most important aspects of the show is the host.

The host of Big Brother is responsible for explaining all the rules and new twists to the guest, as well as supervising the games and challenges in the house. Of course, the host also guides the audience through everything that it’s happening and interviews the guests once they are evicted, as well as with the Big Brother winners.

The long-time host has been Julie Chen Moonves, who also appeared last season. Many fans wonder if she is coming back, or if the show will go in a new direction. Here’s what she said about her return. If you want to know more about all things BB26, check out Season 26 Big Brother Schedule.

Who is the host of Big Brother 2024?

While many things have changed during the run of the show, one thing has remained the same: Julie Chen Moonves once again will return as host for the new season. She has confirmed that she will be back, and has already teased a twist-filled season.

How long has Julie Chen Moonves been in Big Brother?

Chen Moonves has been host since the series conception in 2000. So, she has 24 years being part of the reality show, including Celebrity Big Brother. Fans have come accustomed to her presence. However, Chen Moonves admitted that she hasn’t always been so beloved.

In an interview with E! News, the longtime host revealed that the viewers “hated” her at “the beginning.” She recalled that her nickname ‘ChenBot’ (comparing her to a robot), was supposed to be “an insult,” as she was too serious for the show.

However, she said that while she felt “stung” at first, she learned how to “embrace” it. Now, the host has found a balance between being serious, especially when it comes to interviewing guests, as well as funny, when she needs to.

Julie Chen Moonves’ career: The Talk and more

Chen was a co-host and the moderator of the CBS Daytime talk show, The Talk, for eight seasons. Previously, she was a co-anchor of The Early Show on CBS, as well as news anchor for CBS This Morning.

Julie Chen Moonves’ son and husband: All about the hosts’ family

Chen Moonves is married to Les Moonves, who was CEO and chairman of CBS. They tied the knot back in 2004. They share a son, Charlie, who was born in 2009. However, the couple was involved in controversy when Les Moonves was accused of sexual misconduct by more than a dozen women in 2018. He left the position in September of that year.

That year, Chen Moonves started to use her full name in Big Brother, instead of Julie Chen as she used to sign off. However, due to the scandal, she left The Talk, but she says that decision was made for her by colleagues. Since then, Chen Moonves has become Christian, and wrote a memoir about her spiritual journey titled “But First, God.”

Julie Chen Moonves’ net worth

Per multiple reports, Les Moonves has an estimated net worth of US$800 million through compensation from CBS. However, according to Celebrity Net Worth, Julie Chen has amassed her own fortune of $30 million.