Big Brother contestant leak sparks ratings dip fear

LONDON - Channel 4 is investigating how the identities of 14 prospective 'Big Brother' contestants, including a former Miss Wales, have been leaked to the national press, jeopardising the show's intended line-up less than two weeks before the new series begins.

The makers of the reality TV show, which begins series seven on May 18, are now believed to be frantically discussing plans to avoid any further damage or embarrassment to the show by potentially rejigging the line-up at the last minute.

'Big Brother', which never reveals the identity of contestants until the series begins, now faces a possible audience ratings dip, as viewers decide whether they want to watch the show before it has even begun.

The situation is made worse by ITV's rival programmes, 'Celebrity Love Island' and 'Celebrity X Factor', waiting in the wings to steal some of the hit TV show's audience when they get under way next month.

The names and descriptions of some 'Big Brother''s more risque contestants are believed to be: Imogen Thomas, a former Miss Wales and a nightclub hostess; Emma Spellar, former Miss Great Britain; and Nicky, a glamour model with a penchant for footballers.

There is also: Brook Canning, an American-born rapper; Bonnie, who has been described as a "dumpy teenager"; Grace, a West End dancer; and Sezer, a Mediterranean stockbroker.

Already being tipped as an early frontrunner is Pete, a singer in a band, who is being touted as a potential winner of the show -- should the present line-up go ahead.

One Channel 4 'Big Brother' source said today that with the identity of the housemates out, the show could be ruined.

The show's producers now have now to make the decision whether to stick with their intended line-up and risk even more details being leaked, or replace their preferred contestants with less than 10 days to go.

However, it is unlikely that they will be replaced. Details of contestants have previously leaked out, but not in so much detail with pictures of Thomas appearing in Sunday tabloids.

The seventh series of 'Big Brother', which will run for 13 weeks, is being described as the biggest one to date.

Last week, Nestle's Kit Kat announced it was to run a Willy Wonka-style "golden ticket" promotion, offering 100 recipients the chance to win a place in the 'Big Brother' house. The winner will by-pass the show's traditional selection process, increasing the potential for an unsuitable candidate making their way onto the programme.

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