In a season marked by strategic gameplay and intense competition, Bayleigh Pelham, a 34-year-old bartender from Halifax, Nova Scotia, emerged as the winner of Global TV’s Big Brother Canada Season 12. Pelham’s victory breaks the six-year streak of male winners, highlighting her exceptional gameplay that adeptly combined strategy with social finesse. She’s also the first LGBTQ winner the show has seen in years. Her approach to the game was strategic yet discreet, as she explained, “I want to be underestimated. I want to influence every decision but try not to get blood on my hands until I have to and then dominate.” This tactic proved successful, reflecting a significant shift in the dynamics of the show.

Pelham wins the largest prize ever in “Big Brother Canada” history, totaling $200,000 in cash and prizes.

Pelham also put an end to the notorious “First to Enter” curse, debunking the long-held superstition that the first contestant to enter the Big Brother house each season is doomed to lose. By winning the competition, Pelham has demonstrated that strategic thinking and forming strong social alliances are more influential in determining the outcome of the game than mere superstitions.

Additionally, Pelham’s win is notable for being the first time a contestant has triumphed over a returning player, adding another layer to her historic run on the show. This victory against a seasoned player underscores her tactical acumen and ability to navigate complex social dynamics, further cementing her status as one of the most formidable contestants in the history of Big Brother Canada.