CBS is giving "Big Brother" fans more to love-- and Jay Leno something to fear.
The network has decided to double the show's Tuesday, Sept. 15 season finale, expanding it from one hour to two, insiders close to the production confirm. The grande-sized "Brother" will air live from 9-11 p.m., with Julie Chen set to host.
As a result of the plus-sizing, the last hour of "Brother" will now do battle with night two of NBC's "The Jay Leno Show." CBS likely would have aired a drama repeat in the 10 p.m. slot had it not expanded "Brother."
Look for the two-hour "Brother" to mix all the traditional elements of the final show -- specifically, the crowning of a winner-- with an extended reunion segment featuring return appearances by ejected houseguests. There will, of course, be a studio audience.
CBS's decision to double down on "Brother" is no surprise given the show's stellar ratings this season. Despite being in its 11th season, the show is up 5 percent in overall viewers-- an almost unheard of growth for such a veteran show.
In years past, producers have had to cram a whole bunch of elements into a one-hour finale, leaving limited time for reunion elements and cast interviews.
