Julie Chen Won’t Host ‘Big Brother’ Live Eviction Episode for the First Time in Show’s History

The longtime host of the CBS reality competition series has tested positive for COVID-19, and will be replaced by former winner and current commentator Jeff Schroeder for the first time.

Julie Chen has tested positive for COVID-19 and will not host the live eviction episode of "Big Brother" on Thursday, August 4. This is the first time in the show's 24-season history that Chen has not hosted a live eviction episode.

Chen, who has been the host of "Big Brother" since its inception in 2000, announced her diagnosis on social media on Wednesday, August 3. She said that she is experiencing mild symptoms and is isolating at home.

In Chen's absence, former "Big Brother" winner and current commentator Jeff Schroeder will host the live eviction episode. Schroeder won the 13th season of "Big Brother" in 2011 and has been a commentator on the show since 2015.

"I am so disappointed to miss the live eviction, but I know Jeff will do a great job," Chen said in her statement. "I will be watching from home and cheering on my fellow houseguests."

The live eviction episode of "Big Brother" airs on CBS on Thursdays at 8 p.m. ET/PT.

Additional information:

• Chen is the first host of a major U.S. reality competition series to test positive for COVID-19.
• Schroeder is the first former winner of "Big Brother" to host a live eviction episode.
• "Big Brother" is one of the most popular reality competition series in the world, and has been on the air for 24 seasons.