[Arneldo]

Celebrity Big Brother producers have struggled to convince stars to appear on the new series, according to a report.

The show's team have apparently been battling to sign up celebrities following the racism controversy which engulfed the programme's 2007 run.

Many stars have reportedly decided to reject offers from Big Brother producers because they do not want their careers to suffer after living in the house.

Jade Goody and Jo O'Meara struggled to regain their popularity after being accused of racism and bullying on the programme nearly two years ago.

One celebrity agent told the Daily Star Sunday: "A few of my stars have been approached but, to be honest, they are quite reluctant. So much went wrong last time and celebrities don't want to sign up for something that could ruin their careers overnight."

Celebrity Big Brother returns to Channel 4 on January 2.

DS