Former Big Brother housemate, Shabaz Chauhdry is to sue the company behind Big Brother and blame them for his mental breakdown.

He said: “I take responsibility for going to the auditions. But I do not accept responsibility for the ghastly aftermath. Big Brother took away two years of my life and I want Endemol to accept responsibility.”

Talking of his life since leaving the TV show, he said: “I’ve had no work for a year, doors have been closed and I’m still on antidepressants and living on benefits. I wasn’t made fully aware of the potential pitfalls beforehand – and I know the others weren’t either.”

“I suffered in that house,” he told The People. “I asked to leave and they said ‘No’. I was under pressure but they didn’t step in to help. They don’t care if you’re suffering as long as you have a personality and can help them boost ratings and callers to prime-rate phone numbers.”

Of his imminent legal battle, he added: “I know it’s like David v Goliath but I am very focused and bosses should be worried.”

Endemol and Channel 4 said in a statement: “The welfare of all housemates is important to us. Robust procedures are in place to ensure a high level of care for housemates prior to, during and on leaving. We have not been contacted by Shahbaz saying he is now dissatisfied.”