Why Celebrity Big Brother and why now?
Now because I want to engage with young people who perhaps weren’t even born when I was in Dragon’s Den in 2007. I’ve had an amazing run with young people loading up on my sauces and my products. I’ve always said if Levi Roots can do it, anyone can do it. And that is about engaging with young people and showing them that if they put themselves in situations like I did on Dragon’s Den then they can do it. Be yourself. Just be you and you will become successful. So that’s the reason why I’m doing this – to engage with younger people that I hope will watch the show.
What do you hope to get from the experience?
I want to learn a lot about myself also. Even though it was a similar experience when I went into the Den and I had to face those guys, I think this time I might learn a lot about myself. I’m putting myself into a situation where I have to be me and test myself, can I do it? I believe I can. I believe I can.
What most scares you about the experience?
Nothing really scares me but you know, I’m probably more scared of my own self. I’ve always thought I’m not good enough and I think that is one of the reasons why I’ve put myself in this position to prove to myself that I am enough. So I’m not worried about any particular Housemate and what they might do, it’s more about me. I am the best of me when I’m me, so as long as no one tells me I can’t be authentically Levi Roots, then I think I’m fearless!
Describe what you’re like to live with in 3 words.
Patient. Inspiring. I talk a lot! And quiet at times.
Are there any traits or habits you have that you think fellow Housemates might find difficult to live with?
No, none at all that I can think of (laughs).
What will you find difficult to live with?
I don’t like annoying people. I don’t like arguments. I don’t like it if I know it’s coming towards me. I tend to backtrack rather than respond. I don’t like people who have no understanding of others. As a black Caribbean there will be other people in the House who are different, who dress differently, we will all be different and if I’m not the typical archetype of what people think I should be, I think people have the right to be different and so I don’t like people who challenge that. People who criticise others and don’t want them to be themselves.
Dream CBB Housemates?
I heard a rumour that Lorraine was going in and I hope she is because I like Lorraine a lot. I enjoyed the friendship we had because I did a lot of cooking on her show. Someone like her, who I can talk to and enjoy their company. Or anyone who likes food and to talk. I love to chat and cook so anyone I can do that with.
What items are you packing that you can’t live without?
I’ve got to have my go-to cologne and of course my Saville Row suits and my jewellery.
What’s one piece of advice you’ll take with you into the CBB house?
Be yourself. Remind me that I am myself and I am good enough. There is self-doubt, especially when other people have opinions and think you shouldn’t be you, but I am learning to know that I am enough, and I am my best when I’m being me. I am Levi Roots.
Who do you want to see at the end of the runway?
My son and my partner. I’m going to miss them so much. I already can’t wait to see them.
How will you cope without a phone?
I’m not that into the phone. I think it will be a nice time away from my phone. As long as I can have a notepad so I can write my songs and penning a few lyrics when I’m in there.
