Channel 4 have categorically ruled out bringing back Big Brother in the near future.

The iconic reality show first began on Channel 4 in the year 2000, running for 10 years before being revived on Channel 5 in 2011.

Channel 5 swung the axe on the series for a second time in 2018, however, and despite much rumour it has yet to be picked up by another broadcaster.

Asked about the possibility of the show's return at the Edinburgh TV Festival, C4 director of programming Ian Katz said that there were "no plans" but added that he is keen to launch new reality series during the current coronavirus lockdown.

"I'm definitely interested in the idea of fast-turnaround reality shows," he said, "and there are a few interesting ideas that have been pitched to us that we are looking at for E4 and Channel 4."

At its peak, Big Brother was watched by almost 10 million viewers in the UK.