Exactly. People are forgetting why Jim Davidson had to pull out. William Roache wouldn't do it in a million years anyway never mind when he's got rape claims over his head, the same with Michael Le Velle. Chris Fountain would be an incredible signing.

Just being pedantic but they have not been convicted of anything yet...

I definitely don't want Bill or Michael in (particularly Michael if the rumours of his alleged crimes are correct) and I'm not even sure their bail terms would allow it but Chris I can see being put in....he has committed no crime that I am aware of - other than serious stupidity. He "rapped" (using that term loosely) about sex and knife crimes and was trying very badly to be gangster....so they could very possibly put him in

Agreed. Really the other two are only in the headline to drum up publicity.

Chris Fountain was sacked by Coronation Street after a video of him dressed as rapper "Phantom" went global online [WENN]
Bookies yesterday reported a flood of bets on sacked Chris Fountain being on the reality show.

And it was revealed that Michael Le Vell and William Roache, who are due for separate trials on child rape charges, are wanted on the programme at some point.

Fountain, 25, was booted off the ITV soap on Monday for making a sick rap about rape on the internet, disguised in a Phantom mask.

After an admission of wrong-doing and a full apology, he was said to be ready to go on CBB.

A new series starts tomorrow night on Channel 5 and yesterday bookies Coral were offering odds of 4-1 that he would make a shock appearance.

A betting industry source said: “There are rumours that he will use the show to explain himself and try to rebuild his career.

“Money has gone on him to do so. There’s obviously something going on behind the scenes.”

Le Vell, 48, who has played Coronation Street mechanic Kevin Webster for 30 years, is due on trial next month on 19 charges of rape, indecent assault and sexual activity with a child.
Michael Le Vell is also a potential target for the show [WENN]
“There are rumours that he will use the show to explain himself and try to rebuild his career.”
A betting industry source
Roache, 81, who has played Ken Barlow since 1960, is due to go on trial in January on historic sex allegations involving five girls, including the rape of a 15-year-old.

Both men, who deny all the charges, have been suspended from Corrie as they fight to clear their names.

CBB producers have targeted them as potential contestants in the future should they be found not guilty.

A source said: “Big Brother could be the perfect place for them to engage with the public again.”

Yesterday Fountain’s girlfriend, 23-year-old dancer Jessica Derrick, also hinted that he might be about to spring a massive surprise.

She posted an inspirational quote on Instagram which revealed Fountain’s torment at his axing by ITV bosses from his role as mechanic Tommy Duckworth.

Her message read: “Even the darkest night will end and the sun will rise.”

A swift return to the big time looked increasingly likely last night, as many fans sympathised with the star on Twitter and accused Corrie bosses of over- reacting.
Fountain masked as Phantom where he seemed to sing songs glorifying rape and violent conduct
They sacked him after he was unmasked as a mystery rapper who seemed to glorify rape and sexual violence in his song lyrics.

Pals said Jessica, who has been dating him since they met in Marbella last summer, is devastated.

One revealed: “She is in bits over this.

“There is no way she would be with him for a second if she thought those were his genuine views towards rape and violence.

“It was prankster stuff among friends and was foolish and thoughtless maybe, but not evil.

“Everyone is certain this will be a blip in his career rather than a wrecking ball.’’

A Corrie source said: “Chris is really angry at being sacked.

“He feels he has been hung out to dry. He kept saying: ‘It was a year ago.’

“Chris offered to make a donation or visit to a rape crisis centre but neither of those things were listened to. Deep down he thinks another reason he was sacked was because they’d had enough of his character.’’

Scott Thomas, whose actor brother Ryan, 29, plays Jason Grimshaw on the soap, has also tweeted his support for Fountain, saying: “Can’t believe what the press has done 2 Chris at Corrie.

“The guy has a heart of gold n has lost his job over a joke with some mates! disgusting.”
Bill Roache is another Corrie star tipped for entry [WENN]

I'd say this is about right, Tina (the character) is leaving soon, and he did an interview a few weeks back saying he hoped he would be kept on as his contract was coming to an end in March.

I know. That is why i didn't reply to the post. :blush:

Le Vell wouldn't be able to do this series anyway as his trial starts on September 2nd - 11 days before the final.