People really are watching as Big Brother hit by complaints

LONDON - Ofcom has received 290 complaints in the past week about Channel 4's reality show 'Big Brother', most of which relate to an argument between housemates Marcus Akin and Sree Dasari.

The media regulator is assessing whether it will investigate the complaints, more than 200 of which are in reference to verbal threats made by Akin to Dasari last week.

Akin was called into the diary room and received a formal warning.

The pair also had an earlier scuffle when the housemates were writing their shopping list.

Akin mimicked Dasari's accent and was subsequently called to the diary room, where he was told his behaviour could cause offence to housemates and viewers.

This is the 10th series of 'Big Brother' and the lowest-rating for Channel 4.

Last Friday's eviction, which saw Dasari leave the house, drew in 2.3m and Tuesday night's show pulled in just 1.9m, a 7.6% share of the 9pm-10pm audience.

Tabloid coverage of the reality show has been almost non-existent despite the 'Big Brother' press office sending out press releases flagging up the highlights of each nightly show.

Yesterday, the highlights reported by the press office were:

  • "Dogface worried about facing eviction."
  • "Full on nudity from Lisa and Rodrigo."
  • "The circus begins."
  • "Halfwit is hot! The Freddie makeover takes place."

In an effort to raise viewing figures and celebrate its 10th anniversary, 'Big Brother' is bringing back housemates from previous years to complete tasks with the current housemates. A different ex-contestant will return every day for a week, starting this Sunday.

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