Illinois' Drew Daniel wins 'Big Brother'

United Press International
Wednesday, Sept. 22, 2004 12:00 a.m. | Wednesday, Sept. 22, 2004 12:00 a.m.

"Big Brother" contestant Drew Daniels, who attracted an international fan club, won $500,000 as the U.S. reality TV show champ.

The Illinois native and Michael Ellis, a security officer nicknamed "Cowboy," were the last of 14 contestants to vie for the prize when the finale of CBS' "Big Brother 5" aired Tuesday, Cox News Service said Wednesday.

Daniels emerged as the top contestant in the series where 14 strangers were placed under one roof with cameras and mikes throughout, with one house guest getting evicted each week.

A jury of seven evicted contestants voted for the winner with Daniels earning the title and the cash by one tie-breaking vote.

Ellis received $50,000 as the runner-up.

Throughout the series, Daniels has been a fan favorite, earning female fans in South America, Britain and other countries.

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