Channel 4 is reportedly plotting the return of 'Celebrity Big Brother'.
Davina McCall
The reality TV series was originally scrapped in 2018 - but Channel 4 has held top-secret talks with production firm Endemol about a possible return of the show, with bosses hoping to attract some controversial stars for the new series.
A TV insider told the Daily Star Sunday newspaper: "In recent months Channel 4's suffered a ratings crisis.
"A lot of shows are being beaten by rival networks including Channel 5. The top brass have decided it is time to get 'Celebrity Big Brother' back to give them a boost.
"Discussions with Endemol have been happening since before Christmas. And now Channel 4 execs are starting to plan budgets."
TV bosses hope the new series will air in January 2021 and the show's return will be aided by some controversial celebrities to help boost ratings.
A source added: "Producers want to feature controversial stars who have bad reputations. They plan to give the series the tagline of 'Reborn' because it will be a chance for the celebs to be just that ... reborn with a new public image.
"Potential names are already being discussed and they're working out how much they would be likely to cost."
'Celebrity Big Brother' first aired in the UK in 2001, when it was presented by Davina McCall.
The controversial show subsequently switched to Channel 5, before it was scrapped altogether in 2018.
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