The launch show for the much-anticipated new series of Celebrity Big Brother will reportedly air live.

Last year's hugely popular revival of Big Brother on ITV2 began with a pre-recorded entrance show - filmed the day before - breaking with the tradition of almost all prior series.

According to The Sun, however, producers have decided to revert to the live format for Celeb BB and will even keep the identities of the famous housemates under wraps until the moment they enter the house.

A source told the newspaper: "Producers wanted to bring back that anything-could-happen feel to Celebrity Big Brother's kickoff, even if it will be a bit more of a nerve-wracking experience for them.

"It will also ensure the bosses will be able to save a few more surprises, in terms of the famous housemates they plan to unveil on the night."

The show is getting an upgrade from ITV2 to ITV1 for the new series, which is expected to begin on Monday, March 4 and conclude almost three weeks later on Friday, March 22.