A New Big Brother Champion Crowned
The curtains have closed on season 28 of Big Brother, with Rick Devens emerging as the winner. In a live finale broadcast on Thursday, October 1, Devens secured the victory with a decisive six-to-one jury vote, walking away with the $750,000 grand prize. Taylor Brown finished as the runner-up, receiving $75,000 for her efforts.
The Final Showdown
The competition reached a boiling point during the final Head of Household challenge. Taylor, 27, claimed victory in the first portion, while 42-year-old Devens triumphed in the second. In the ultimate face-off, Devens secured the win, making the difficult decision to evict Drew Campbell.
Beyond the main prize, it was a highly lucrative night for Devens. He was also voted as America’s Favorite Houseguest, adding another $50,000 to his winnings, along with the $10,000 he previously earned through the “pharaoh’s curse” twist.
A Strategic Masterclass
A familiar face to reality TV fans from his time on Survivor: Edge of Extinction and Survivor 50, Devens entered the house as a favorite. Utilizing his background as a news anchor, he navigated the game by winning various competitions and establishing dominant alliances. Notable strategic highlights included his bold use of the Diamond Power of Veto—earned during week two—to save his ally, Dee.
The Paths of the Finalists
While Drew Campbell was closely aligned with the powerhouse players throughout the season, he carved out his own path. Despite some houseguests labeling his gameplay as “weasel-like,” his ability to stay central to two major alliances propelled him to the final stage.
Taylor Brown chose a contrasting strategy. She initially kept a low profile, focusing on forming a strong bond with Latrice “Lala” Verrett. After Lala’s eviction, Taylor shifted gears, winning critical competitions—including the final four Head of Household—to solidify her position in the finale.
Support from the Host
Host Chen Moonves expressed her admiration for Taylor’s gameplay leading up to the finale.
«I think she’s someone who won when she had to know not to let emotions get the best of her. Didn’t have loose lips or you know her ego like lash out. If that meant she stayed confined to her pod a lot, it’s a strategy, and I love that she loves Jesus so much, and she and she gave him the glory when she won that last puzzle competition. I just love her,»Moonves noted.