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Nicola McClean Reveals Surprising Celebrity Big Brother Contractual Clause
Former Celebrity Big Brother participant Nicola McClean has disclosed that housemates are contractually prohibited from spending their days sleeping on the popular ITV show. The media personality, who is 43 and a mother of two, competed on Celebrity Big Brother in both 2012 and 2017, the latter as part of an All-Star lineup. In a recent interview, McClean shared her insights on the current roster of celebrities entering the famed reality TV house. “I think Mickey Rourke could distinguish himself. I hope he doesn’t sleep excessively… It’s stipulated in your contract. You are not permitted to sleep during the daytime,” she stated.
Producers Intentionally Disrupt Sleep Patterns
McClean further admitted that show producers actively manipulate the environment to ensure participants consistently feel fatigued. “While you lack access to timekeeping devices inside, your days begin extremely early. Sleep deprivation is common within the house, as they deliberately rouse you in the early hours. Consequently, exhaustion becomes a constant state, and daytime sleeping is forbidden. They truly manipulate your emotional state,” she explained.
Observations on Mickey Rourke and Early Departure
Speaking before the incident, Nicola, representing WhichBingo at the time of interview, offered her initial perspective on Mickey Rourke, prior to his removal from the program due to alleged “inappropriate behaviour.β The Oscar-nominated Hollywood actor’s stint in the house was brief, lasting only six days before producers instructed him to leave the show.
Big Brother’s Mental Strain Compared to Jungle Experience
Nicola McClean also confessed that she perceived her Big Brother experience as more mentally challenging than her time on “I’m A Celebrity…Get Me Out Of Here!”.
Physical vs. Mental Challenges
“Regarding physical demands, the jungle is undeniably more grueling due to food deprivation and subsequent physical depletion,” McClean noted.

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“However, from a mental standpoint, Big Brother presented the most demanding challenge I have ever undertaken, unequivocally. The constant uncertainty and anxiety it induces, stemming from the lack of information regarding external events is immense.”
“The unpredictability of potential Big Brother summons, or forthcoming evictions, contributes to a perpetual state of unease and uncertainty,” she added.
Impact of Structured Routine vs. Big Brother’s Unpredictability
“For individuals diagnosed with anxiety, such an environment might seem ill-suited, although paradoxically, I found it captivating,” she clarified.
“This is not to suggest a dislike for the experience; rather, I thrive on structure and planning. My typical routine involves discussing the day’s agenda with my husband each morning.”
“My neurodiversity predisposes me to meticulous planning and list-making. I prefer clarity and predictability in my daily activities.”
“Therefore, residing in an environment where all semblance of control is systematically removed proves to be exceptionally mentally taxing,” she concluded.