In a historic victory, Jag Bains emerged as the winner of Big Brother 25 (US) in 2023, etching his name in the reality show's records as the first Sikh-Punjabi contestant and winner in the American franchise. Hailing from the small town of Omak, Washington, Bains' journey has been not just about winning a game; it has been an encapsulation of breaking stereotypes, celebrating diversity, and making history.
Bains' strategic prowess during the game faced early challenges putting him at risk of eviction. However, a lifeline from an ally marked a pivotal moment and the beginning of Bains's impressive comeback, as he seamlessly floated through the game, forming alliances and dominating competitions. Bains's efforts culminated in a convincing victory, and his triumph went on to mark him, by date of birth, as the youngest finalist and winner, but also as the first Gen Z winner in Big Brother US history. In fact, he not only shattered the all-time competition record with 10 wins in a single season, but also established a new benchmark for the all-time veto record, amassing an impressive 7 vetos in the same season.
Beyond the game, Bains’ significance lies in being a trailblazer for representation. He shares, "My family was the very first Sikh family in my town, so I immediately knew what it meant to stand out. Showcasing my Sikh identity and representing my community on a national platform was the most important part of this entire experience. This shaped my entire game as well; I knew I wanted to play a game with integrity and loyalty, not only because that's the way I personally wanted to play, but because I knew that's the message I wanted to send out when showcasing my Sikh identity."
Family has also played a pivotal role in Bains’ journey, with every decision driven by the question, "Would my family be proud of me?". Bains emphasizes the importance of staying true to his values, a sentiment echoed by his family's overwhelming pride in his representation. Today, post-Big Brother, Bains is venturing into music, blending Punjabi and English in his original songs.
For those embracing new challenges, Bains advice entails overcoming self-doubt and exploring hidden potential. Whether applying for Big Brother or stepping into uncharted territory in life, he stresses the importance of self-awareness, urging people to confront fear and take chances, “Know who you are, know your story, and know your why. If it's the right thing to do and if it's something you'd regret not taking a shot at, then do it scared, but do it anyway. You'll thank yourself later for taking that leap of faith!”