Big Brother's Chantelle Houghton's stunning 5-stone weight loss after 'realising enemy'

She stormed into the Big Brotherhouse in 2006 as a fresh-faced, bubbly 22-year-old from Essex, andChantelle Houghton instantly made her mark. Warm and quick-witted, she captivated viewers, going on to win the show. But life outside the house would come with challenges, from friendships strained to heartbreak played out under the public eye – such as her split from Preston [Samuel Preston], who she met on the show, got married to and split from the following year.

Today, as fans are gripped by the latest series of Big Brother, Chantelle, who has since traded reality TV drama for a quieter life, opens up exclusively to OK! about her CBB journey, surviving public scrutiny and howher daughter Dolly, 13, is her motivation…

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Hi! What was it like walking into the Celebrity Big Brother house for the first time?

I swear I’d manifested it, because I’d imagined it so many times. I had a whole host of emotions – excitement, nerves, imagining my ex-boyfriend watching at home… Until I’d actually set foot in the door I was like, “Is this really happening?”

What made you apply in the first place?

I didn’t have a great education. I left school, got a receptionist job in London and just wanted more – to travel, live comfortably. I started doing some modelling and promotion work. I never wanted fame; just financial comfort. I thought I’d get a higher profile, but I never expected it to blow up the way it did. I’m eternally grateful.

What was the toughest part about living in the house?

Being called straight to the diary room and told I needed to pretend I was already famous and part of a girlband. It felt like the dream might be ripped away from me yet again. Once I got over that hurdle, it was a breeze. I relaxed and had a whale of a time.

Looking back, what did winning mean to you?

At the time, I was a girl from a small town in Essex. Winning felt like a proud moment for everyday people. It showed that small people get wins too. I hope it gave people confidence to go for their dreams. I’ve always been a risk-taker in life, thinking, “What’s the worst that can happen?” It paid off.

Which housemate did you bond with most?

Mr Preston was my favourite. The hardest to get on with were Dennis Rodman and George Galloway, especially Dennis. At first, Dennis and I were friendly, but a big row one night turned into a “them and us” situation. We were in a secret room with champagne, alcohol, cigarettes and cigars. I don’t smoke, but everyone was watching, and it led to conflict. It was a game, though. I wouldn’t change a thing, it couldn’t have turned out any better.

Could you survive in the house now?

It would be a very different experience. I’m older and might be a little burned and damaged. I’d definitely stand up for myself more now. I’m a mum, have a mortgage, a child, a dog, and commitments.

How is Dolly? You rarely show her on social media…

My daughter is amazing, and it’s a conscious decision to keep her private.

Are you watching the new series of Big Brother?

Yes. I loved launch night, but I was surprised by the age range – they’re mostly younger. I was a bit disappointed not to see more older housemates. Evicting someone straight away was cruel; I know that fear. Entertainment-wise, I’m excited for the drama ahead!

How do you think the dynamic between younger and older housemates is working out?

Older housemates might fall into a parent role. In the celebrity version, people respected each other more. With younger 20-somethings, it could be chaotic. You either take on a parent role or get annoyed by the noise.

How would you describe it inside the house, truthfully?

There’s nothing like it. You have no interaction with the outside world, no favours. You’re completely isolated – like a goldfish in a bowl. Food is delivered, but there are no frills. It’s military-like.

How did winning change your family and friends?

Family-wise, nothing changed. My family’s close and grounded.

You’ve had a few very public relationships. How did that change you?

With Preston, for instance, it was great when everything was wonderful. You want to share all your happiness but when you’re not together any more, it’s heartbreaking. You start isolating yourself because you don’t want everyone to know that your life’s gone wrong.

You’ve also spoken openly about your fitness journey – what’s your secret?

Realising sugar is the enemy. I was five stone heavier than I should have been and eating a yoghurt that had four teaspoons of sugar. I could eat four of those yoghurts easily. I cut out sugar, and the weight started dropping off. I stay away from processed food too, I drink lots of water and make everything from scratch.

Do you feel pressure from the media to look a certain way, even now?

Look, I’ve been called fat, pregnant, anorexic – you can’t win. The only people whose thoughts I care about are my family, friends and God. That’s it.

If you could rewrite one chapter of life post-Big Brother, would you?

Actually, the bad stuff teaches you lessons. It shapes you – I wouldn’t be where I am today without it.

And your dream housemates?

Meghan Markle – I’d love to get to know the real her, Donald Trump and Victoria Beckham.

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