'Celebrity Hijack' launch date announced

New BB spinoff Celebrity Hijack will launch on Thursday, January 3, it has been confirmed.

Fronted by Dermot O'Leary, the live launch programme will introduce the housemates - all "gifted" young individuals - as they enter the new-look BB compound.

The 90-minute show, which will simulcast on Channel 4, will also introduce the first celebrity hijacker. The celebrity hijackers will become Big Brother for a short period, setting tasks, giving instructions in the diary room and otherwise causing mischief for the housemates.

After launch night, Celebrity Hijack will settle into a daily 9pm slot on E4. As is tradition, live coverage from the house will air through the night on the channel, while Dermot will front his last ever series of BBLB weeknights at 7.30pm.