[James]

This story originated in the Daily Star.

Big Brother to throw a celebrity into the mix
Friday, 08 Apr 2005 16:28

Bosses at Big Brother are planning to liven up events in this year's show, by putting a top celebrity into the house.


Not content with the usual collection of fame-hungry members of the public, Channel 4 chiefs are considering bringing in a famous face who they hope will pull in the viewers.

Football legend Gazza, religious fanatic David Icke, and glamour model Lucy Pinder are all in the running, according to the Daily Star.

"If they add a celebrity to the mix it will be interesting to see who the public decide to cheer on," an insider told the newspaper.

If Gazza does decide to enter the house, it will not be the first time a football legend mixed with housemates. In Argentina's version of the show, the country's best ever player - one Diego Maradona - mingled with housemates. But the overweight star did not stick around for long, the producers pulled him out after a day entertaining the housemates and viewing audience alike.

It is surprising that TV bosses feel the need to liven up the show, given the sheer volume of weirdos who turned up for the BB auditions for the new series, which starts in May.

A contortionist, a female porn star, a convicted car thief and two frisky pensioners are all rumoured to be in the shortlist for the final 12 housemates.

However, Channel 4 has refused to give away any details about who the chosen ones are - this will be announced less than a week before the show kicks off.

http://www.inthenews.co.uk/television/big-programmes/big-brother/big-brother-throw-celebrity-into-mix-$8223258.htm