Here's Everything to Know About 'Big Brother' Fan-Favorite "Pressure Cooker" Competition
Over 25 seasons, Big Brother has rolled out a number of competitions played in the backyard set, many of which have become staples. But one has stood the test of time, oftentimes the fan answer as to their favorite competition: The Pressure Cooker. And now, after almost two decades away, the endurance challenge has made its highly-anticipated return in Big Brother 25.
Here's everything you need to know about the "Pressure Cooker" competition on Big Brother.
How does the Pressure Cooker competition work?
The Pressure Cooker is an endurance challenge. Each competitor stands inside a transparent glass box, holding onto a button. Simply put, the last person standing holding onto their button would win the competition and the Head of Household title. Additionally, as houseguests were eliminated, they would open up mystery boxes inside the Pressure Cooker. Some would contain punishments for the people still inside, while others would have individual prizes.
When did the Pressure Cooker competition air on Big Brother?
A version of the Pressure Cooker competition debuted on season 5 of Big Brother, where the competitors were holding onto buttons over cutouts of themselves. But many fans consider its official first appearance to be on the next summer in Week 6 of Big Brother 6. Additionally, the competition is set to make a comeback during Week 4 of Big Brother 25.
Related: Everything to Know About Big Brother 25
How long did the Pressure Cooker challenge last?
Believe it or not, the Big Brother 6 Pressure Cooker challenge lasted nearly 14 hours! The houseguests stood out in the box for over half a day, with the victor finally being crowned after 13 hours and 53 minutes. It is far and away the longest competition in Big Brother history, as well as the longest-lasting challenge in American competitive reality TV.
Who won the Pressure Cooker competition in season 6?
Big Brother 6 was a hard-fought battle between two sides of the house. And so it's only fitting that it came down to one member from each side: Jennifer Vazquez, and the recently-returned Kaysar Ridha. As the hours ticked by, Jennifer made a deal with Kaysar, promising not to nominate him if he gave her the win. He took the deal, and she walked away as Head of Household.
Who won the Pressure Cooker competition in season 25?
After yet another intense battle that went basically the same amount of time as the first one, Cameron Hardin beat out America Lopez to become the new HoH.
Why do Big Brother fans love the Pressure Cooker competition?
It's always tough to make assumptions about an entire fanbase, especially one as diverse and varied as Big Brother. But the Pressure Cooker has become iconic, despite only being run once, for a number of reasons. First, the challenge is simple in conceit. It doesn't test physicality or memory, just pure willpower. It's "how bad do you want it" to the extreme, something that calls back to those more minimalist early reality TV challenges.
But it's safe to say Pressure Cooker is remembered fondly because of the story during (and after) the challenge. Kaysar was one of the most popular players in the show's history, and had just earned his way back into the house. The fan favorite Sovereign Six alliance had just lost a member and needed to gain ground against their opposition, the Friendship. The longer Pressure Cooker lasted, the more epic it going, with Jennifer crying to Kaysar with the promise she'd protect him. She'd then go on to break her word mere days later, as he was nominated and re-evicted seven days after entering. Getting to see such a favorite return, relinquish power, and get crushed for it saddened and maddened the fandom, automatically making Pressure Cooker one to remember.
What will be different about the Big Brother 25 Pressure Cooker?
The Big Brother 25 Pressure Cooker was based in the "Scary-verse." As such, the competition was entirely within an indoor structure, with periodic period of darkness and flashing lights. Also, a pit of snakes was introduced in the middle of the room.
Next, check out 10 Big Brother Head of Households who sent home their own ally.
