Disability support worker and NBL1 player Marley Biyendolo has been crowned the winner of Big Brother 2021, defeating fellow finalists Christina Podolyan and Sarah Jane “SJ” Adams in a hotly contested public vote.
The 26-year-old from Melbourne, who prided himself on playing an honourable game, walks away with $250,000 and the ultimate reality television title.
After the announcement, an emotional Marley paid tribute to his late mother Victoria, who passed away from cancer four years ago.
“I wanted to play a truthful and honest game and show everyone in the outside world that doing these things can allow you to succeed in life,” said Marley. “I’m so proud of the game I played, and I know my mum’s proud of it.”
Marley was joined onstage by his father Clotaire and brother Dieuson at the live Grand Final in Sydney, which was hosted by Sonia Kruger.
When asked what he’ll do with the prize money, Marley said:
“I’m going to take care of dad, whatever he needs, whatever he wants, and set him up for the rest of his life.”
Runners-up Christina and SJ were also joined by their loved ones at the live event, which saw this year’s 26 housemates reunited on stage, and virtually, for the first time since leaving the house, including fan favourites Tilly, Daniel, Mary, Nick, Mel, Carlos and final evictee Ari.
Marley, Christina and SJ survived 63 days in Big Brother’s game, evicting 23 housemates before them to become the final three left standing.
Throughout the season, Marley won three individual and four group challenges, scoring a bonus $10,000 cash prize when he took out the reward challenge in week eight. He was nominated five times for eviction.
Think you’ve got what it takes to play Big Brother’s game? Apply now for Big Brother 2022 at www.bigbrothercasting.com.au
Big Brother is produced by Endemol Shine Australia for the Seven Network.
