Big Brother’s Glyn Wise reveals he’s been officially ordained as a deacon – almost 20 years after he appeared on the reality show

Television personality Glyn Wise, known for his appearance on Big Brother, has shared that he has recently been officially ordained as a deacon, approximately two decades following his time on the reality program.

2006 saw Glyn, a runner-up on the reality TV show, disclose that he had begun preparing to become a Catholic priest in his homeland, Wales, in the year 2022.

On a Sunday, the ex-TV personality shared an image of himself wearing a black shirt and a clerical collar with his 15,000 fans, revealing that he had now received official ordination.

He penned: ‘This is Rev Glyn – I’m coming to get you!

On my first day as an ordained reverend, I’ve experienced a challenging yet fulfilling day – “With God, all things are possible” (Matthew 19:26). Excited to emulate the disciples in the Acts of the Apostles, spreading the gospel far and wide!

Glyn then uploaded a string of pictures with his family including his mum, dad and older sister.

In addition, he shared a video clip from the ceremony held at St Asaph Cathedral, located in north Wales, where he received official recognition and commissioning.

2006 saw Davina McCall as the host for Big Brother, with a diverse lineup of well-known contestants including Imogen Thomas, Aisleyne Horgan-Wallace, and sadly, the deceased Nikki Grahame.

Previously, Glyn confessed that it was following his whirlwind of fame after appearing on the popular reality show that led him to choose Christianity and pursue a career as a priest.

18-year-old Welsh contestant made an appearance in the seventh season of Big Brother, which was a highly acclaimed show on Channel 4 at that time. He ended up as the first runner-up, losing to the winner Pete Bennett in 2006.

Glyn, who shared his story about getting selected for Big Brother through prayer, has been a devoted Christian since the day he was born.

However, confined under constant surveillance for 24 hours, he acknowledged drifting away from his religious beliefs. Occasionally, he would seek solace in prayer, hidden beneath the protection of his blanket, as he was apprehensive about ridicule regarding his faith.

In 2022, when he started his training, he informed TopMob that he was filled with confidence and resolve, aiming to secure a spot on television’s most prominent reality program.

In my usual practice, I sought guidance from above, and as ever, I felt His presence. He led me smoothly through the audition phase, culminating in my successful entry onto the stage of the show.

In 2006, about a quarter of the population tuned into reality TV. During that time, I sought divine guidance throughout a game show, and after spending three months confined within a house, I ended up as the runner-up.

Although I prioritized being perceived as ‘cool’ over being a Christian, I now deeply regret that choice and often found myself reflecting on my beliefs while hidden beneath the blankets in prayer.

Following his upbringing in tranquil rural Wales, Glyn found himself immersed in London’s bustling nightlife as he adapted to life under the limelight, post his stint on the Big Brother set.

Despite the fact that he found it challenging to adjust to his new fame, he openly acknowledged that his deep-rooted Christian faith took a backseat due to constant red carpet functions, glamorous parties, and movie premiers in his busy schedule.

Following the performance, I found myself basking in the limelight. I graced numerous UK television and radio programs as a guest. I signed a modeling contract with Calvin Klein, and became a youth radio host for BBC Radio Cymru. To top it all off, Rhodri Morgan, the first minister of Wales, bestowed upon me the title of ‘Ambassador of the Welsh Language.’

In the whirlwind of invitations to galas and film debuts, I found myself surrounded by crowds, yet strangely alone. This era saw a drift from my deeply held beliefs. Caught up in the allure of celebrity, I seemed to have misplaced my authentic self. A wake-up call was needed. It was time for me to find my way back to my true path.

‘I had become someone I hardly recognised, but yet everyone else felt as though they knew me.’  

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2025-06-29 20:06