Why didn’t Big Brother star Zach use his $10,000 bribe power this week?

Big Brother
Big Brother | Image Source: Instagram /@zcorn_29

Big Brother 27’s fifth week delivered unexpected drama when houseguest Zach chose not to activate his secret $10,000 bribe power despite facing potential eviction. The reality competition show places contestants in a house where they vote each other out weekly while competing for a grand prize. Players often receive special powers and advantages to shake up the game dynamics.

Zach obtained his bribe ability during the season’s opening week, giving him the option to purchase safety from nomination until jury selection begins. This power could have guaranteed his survival when he found himself on the chopping block alongside fellow contestants. However, Monday’s episode shocked viewers when Zach declined to use this significant advantage. His decision stemmed from loyalty concerns regarding his closest ally Morgan, whom he feared would replace him as a nominee.

The choice revealed Zach’s strategic priorities and willingness to risk elimination rather than endanger his primary partnership. His revelation of the secret power to select houseguests this week has created new alliance dynamics and trust-building opportunities that could reshape the Big Brother game moving forward.


What is Big Brother contestant Zach’s strategy here?

Zach’s bribe power on Big Brother gave him a clear way to avoid this week’s elimination ceremony. It allowed him to spend $10,000 to remove himself from the nomination block instantly, ensuring at least another week in the house. This advantage could still be used in the weeks before jury selection, giving him several chances to play it strategically.

The power could still be used in future weeks before jury selection. Most players would consider using such protection when facing potential eviction. However, Zach calculated that activating the power would create worse outcomes for his overall game position.

His decision surprised both Big Brother houseguests and viewers who expected him to prioritize personal safety. The decision reflected a balance between protecting an ally and ensuring his own safety. Either way, it marked a pivotal moment in his Big Brother journey.

Zach’s primary motivation centered on protecting his closest ally Morgan from potential nomination. He believed activating the power would force Head of Household Mickey to name a replacement nominee, with Morgan being the most likely option.

During Monday night’s conversation, Zach explicitly told Morgan that her safety influenced his choice. He viewed her as his number one ally and refused to jeopardize her game for his own protection. This loyalty revealed the depth of their partnership within the house dynamics.

The decision highlighted how personal relationships can override individual survival instincts in Big Brother. Zach prioritized their alliance over his immediate safety concerns. Whether this strategy proves wise remains to be seen as the week progresses.

On Wednesday night, Zach revealed the power to Mickey as a gesture of trust. He presented it as proof of loyalty to their four-person alliance, which also includes Morgan and Vince. The discussion aimed to reinforce the alliance while keeping his own position secure.

Whether the move will pay off depends on the alliance staying strong and continuing to protect him. If Zach survives this eviction, his unused power could become even more valuable in the weeks ahead.

Mickey initially questioned why Zach had kept such an important secret from the group. She expressed concerns about building trust when alliance members withheld crucial information. However, Zach’s explanation about protecting Morgan seemed to satisfy her doubts.


What does this mean for Zach and the others in the future?

Zach’s decision to reveal his power to both Morgan and Mickey creates new strategic considerations on Big Brother. He plans to inform Vince if they both survive this week, keeping the secret within their four-person alliance. However, he explicitly stated that Lauren would remain uninformed about the ability.

This selective disclosure strategy carries significant risks if the information spreads beyond his trusted circle. Other houseguests might view his hidden power as a major threat requiring immediate elimination. The revelation could backfire if it increases his target status rather than building trust.

Zach’s choice not to use his bribe power this week demonstrates how personal loyalty can influence Big Brother strategy. His willingness to risk elimination for Morgan’s safety reveals character priorities that extend beyond pure game mechanics.

The long-term success of this decision depends on whether his alliance remains intact and continues protecting him. If Zach survives this eviction, his unused power becomes even more valuable for future Big Brother weeks. However, if he gets eliminated, the choice will be remembered as a costly miscalculation that ended his game prematurely.


Big Brother airs on CBS, with episodes available to stream on Paramount+.

Edited by Ritika Pal