'Big Brother' start date confirmed

The new series of Big Brother will begin on Wednesday, May 30, Channel 4 has confirmed.

Once again the show is expected to last thirteen weeks, with a projected final set for Friday, August 31.

As usual, Davina will host the live entrance show on launch night, beginning at 9pm and leading in to the season finale of Desperate Housewives at 10.15pm.

Live coverage follows on E4, with Big Brother's Big Mouth airing on Channel 4 later the same night. A replacement for Russell Brand has yet to be announced, with guest hosts expected to take the role for the summer run.