The actor Babu Santana is back on Brazil’s most famous reality show, Big Brother Brasil 26. In this early January of 2026, he returns to the show in the new category of Veterans, composed of former participants from past editions. His return happens six years after his memorable participation in BBB 20, a historic edition that coincided with the beginning of the Covid-19 pandemic. His relevance to the game is undeniable, as he holds the record for the participant who faced the most Paredões, a total of ten times.
How does this new dynamic work? The production of BBB 26, which premiered last Monday (12), innovated by dividing the participants into three groups: the anonymous ones (Pipocas), the celebrities (Camarotes) and, for the first time, the Veterans. Babu is part of this last group, promising to use his prior experience to his advantage. Thus, his return is not just a comeback, but a new chance in a game he almost won in 2020, when he was eliminated in the final Paredão, finishing in third place.
The Historic Journey on BBB 20
Babu Santana’s journey on BBB 20, which took place in 2020, was a true test of endurance. Despite reaching the final, his path was lonely for a good part of the game. He mainly relied on the partnership of Felipe Prior as an ally. However, his survival skills were what drew the most attention. For this reason, he is still remembered as the ‘king of the Paredão,’ a title he carries to this day in the imagination of the show’s fans. Do you remember the tension in that final against Rafa Kalimann and Thelma Assis?
Furthermore, his participation was marked by a unique moment on television: the announcement of the pandemic to the confined housemates. This turned the edition into a historical document, and Babu lived it from inside the house. His charismatic personality and his tireless fight in the game won over the audience at the time. Now, in 2026, he has the opportunity to rewrite his story, but with the baggage of someone who already knows the behind-the-scenes and the emotional traps of confinement.
What to Expect from BBB 26 and the Veterans?
With the premiere of BBB 26, the Brazilian audience is faced with a renewed formula. The novelty of the Veterans adds a completely new strategic layer to the game. These participants already know how things work, from the dynamics of the challenges to the pressure from fans on social media. On the other hand, they also carry the weight of an already established image, which can be both an advantage and a target. Meanwhile, the Pipoca and Camarote groups try to find their space in this unprecedented dynamic.
Thus, Babu Santana’s return symbolizes more than the comeback of a beloved character. It represents a test for this new phase of the reality show. Will prior experience be the decisive factor for victory? Or will the newcomers bring strategies that the veterans cannot predict? The answers are starting to appear now, in January 2026, and promise to move social media and discussions across the country in the coming weeks. So, get ready to cheer and keep an eye out, because the game is just beginning.
