Big Brother favourite Josh Moore has voluntarily chosen to leave the Big Brother house and the competition after learning of the death of his brother.

Josh’s parents, Terry and Carolyn, were permitted to see their son in the Big Brother House Captain’s Quarters yesterday to inform him of his 32 year-old brother, Toby’s sudden death. 

It is believed his older brother suffered a heart attack.

Josh was told the tragic news while the other contestants were preparing for bed.  Moore moved out of the Big Brother house to stay with his parents last night then informed producers he would withdraw from the competition and leave the show in order to be with his parents. 

Josh returned to South Australia this morning to support his family.

Below is a statement issued by Channel Nine and Big Brother:

A Message From Big Brother

Last night in the Big Brother House, Housemate Josh was called to the Captain's Quarters as the Housemates were getting ready for bed.

Josh was taken out of the House to meet his parents who had to tell him the tragic news of the sudden death of his brother Toby, 32.

Josh then spent the night outside the House with his family where he made the decision to leave the Big Brother competition and go home to support his family at this sad time.

The Southern Star production team and the Nine Network wish to express their sympathy to the family and ask the fans of Big Brother and the media to allow them privacy at this time.

Further announcements about the Big Brother shows will come later today.

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A spokeswoman for Nine said, "The Southern Star production team and the Nine Network wish to express their sympathy to the family and ask fans of Big Brother and the media to allow them privacy at this time."  

Adelaide surfer and musician Josh, 28, was very popular among housemates and fans and was favourite to win the $250 000 prize money.

It is expected that more announcements will be made today in regards to further changes to the Big Brother shows.

http://www.bigbrother.com.au/news/8546250/a-message-from-big-brother