Is *Grande Fratello VIP 2026* Facing Early Closure? Ratings Dip Raises Concerns
The 2026 edition of *Grande Fratello VIP* (Big Brother VIP) is reportedly facing potential early closure due to disappointing ratings, despite the return of host Ilary Blasi and the addition of opinionists Selvaggia Lucarelli and Cesara Buonamici. Mediaset, the broadcasting company, is reportedly considering ending the demonstrate prematurely, issuing an ultimatum to improve viewership within the next week.
Mediaset Considers Early Termination
According to reports from MowMag, Mediaset is evaluating the possibility of ending *Grande Fratello VIP* before its scheduled run. “The reality show, at the moment, is realistically sailing towards an early closure,” the publication states. An ultimatum has reportedly been issued, giving the program one week to demonstrate improved ratings or face cancellation from Canale 5’s prime-time schedule. A final decision will be made next Wednesday, based on a weighted average of audience figures.
The next two episodes, airing on March 27th and March 31st, are considered crucial. If ratings do not improve, the show may be pulled from the schedule.
Ilary Blasi’s Second Show Facing Potential Cancellation
This situation marks the second time Ilary Blasi has hosted a show facing early cancellation. Her previous program, The Couple, was also ended prematurely around the same time last year without a proper conclusion.
Ratings Performance and Concerns
Despite initial expectations and a cast of notable contestants, *Grande Fratello VIP 2026* has struggled to attract a significant audience. The show has reportedly lost appeal, even among younger viewers. Concerns have been raised about the late start time of the prime-time broadcast – after 10 PM to accommodate The Wheel of Fortune – and whether the format still resonates with audiences.
The debut episode garnered 2,146,000 viewers with a 18.4% share, which was the lowest premiere viewership in recent years. The previous edition, hosted by Simona Ventura, attracted nearly 700,000 more viewers. Even editions hosted by Alfonso Signorini achieved higher numbers, with one premiere reaching 2,510,000 viewers and a 21.28% share.
The first three episodes averaged 1.8 million viewers (16% share). The second episode saw a dip to 1,672,000 viewers (14.3%), while the third episode showed a slight increase to 1,813,000 viewers (15.3%).
Expert Commentary and Current Status
Pier Silvio Berlusconi, a Mediaset executive, recently urged patience, stating, “Let’s deliver it time: it’s too early to give a verdict. With Endemol we decided to do it because we think that Big Brother is one of those products so central in the history of modern TV that it must continue to move forward.” However, this timeframe may be shorter than initially anticipated.