Big Brother Brasil takes American Idol’s record for most public votes

American Idol was once the quintessential television show for asking viewers to vote for their favourite competitors – but that tune has now changed.

After a dramatic 20th season, we’re pleased to confirm that South American program Big Brother Brasil (BBB) has officially taken the singing competition’s record title for the most public votes received by a television program.

Totaling to 1,532,944,337 votes, the title was broken as a result of this season’s situation between participants Felipe Prior, Manu Gavassi and Mari Gonzalez - which not only engaged viewers, but caused a staggering increase in public votes for the episode.

The elimination vote after the tenth episode on 31 March 2020 ultimately led to Felipe’s departure and received 1,532,944,337 billion ballots on GShow, BBB's official website.

Since its initial premiere, the Brazilian version of the Big Brother franchise brought new social dynamics for cast members on the show and has engaged people both inside and out of the house’s walls. Notable Brazilian influencers such as athletes, musicians, and many others, typically watch and participate in online conversations surrounding the show - which is what ultimately led to an record-breaking turnout of votes for the eliminations round.

Guinness World Records verified the title after confirming the vote met the official record title guidelines.

On behalf of the show, BBB’s host Tiago Leifert received the record title certificate from official Guinness World Records adjudicator Camila Borenstain during tonight’s episode.

Tiago celebrated the achievement and expressed that it is the result of the public’s timeless fascination and love for reality TV.

“The engagement of this vote is proof of the public's passion for BBB. We are always flattered and thrilled when we see how much people care about our stories and characters,” he mentioned.

After presenting the certificate, adjudicator Camila added: "It is truly impressive to see the power of record-breaking engagements. Presenting the record title certificate for Big Brother Brazil 20 and Globo TV was a pleasure. It was wonderful to see the reaction of the participants, who are currently unaware of what goes on outside of their walls."

This particular Guinness World Records title helps to mark an already commemorative 20th season of the widely popular show.

The Brazilian version of the ‘Big Brother’ format brought new dynamics and engaged people both inside and out of its walls.

The public, as well as notable Brazilian influencers such as athletes, musicians, and many others, watched and engaged in conversations that ultimately led to an incredible turnout of votes for the eliminations.

Rodrigo Dourado, General Director of the program, says: “Human interaction is the defining feature when we talk about 'Big Brother'. The program always moves the crowd every season. I have been in reality TV since the beginning. There are 20 editions, and to see our audience identifying with the brothers and their stories, having fun, and playing games is and will always be the best response we can hope for. This historic number is the result of this exchange that we have had for 20 editions. We are extremely grateful for it.”