ITV is said to be eyeing big names to make sure the upcoming Celebrity Big Brother reboot is a success.
The show, which previously aired on Channel 4 and the Channel 5, will launch for the first time on ITV in March with a prime-time slot.
Names that have already been touted as possible contestants include controversial Wag Rebekah Vardy and Prince Andrew’s ex-wife Sarah "Fergie" Ferguson, Duchess of York.
X Factor judge Louis Walsh is also believed to be a contender, which is sure to leave his ex colleagues such as Simon Cowell and Sharon Osbourne squirming as to what secrets he could spill.
Irish Walsh is also a music manager and has previously managed acts including Boyzone, Jedward, Westlife and Shayne Ward.
A TV insider reportedly told The Sun: "The team behind the programme are being clever about the kind of celebs they’re considering.
"They don’t just want big names in there — they want stars who will bring something truly intriguing."
Acknowledging that ITV may have to "splash some cash" to get the people that they want, the source said: "It's a worthwhile investment."
They added: "They want this to be on a par with I’m A Celebrity, which has a similarly claustrophobic environment involving celebrities completing strange challenges under the glare of the public eye."
Big Brother returned to screens last year after a five-year absence, fronted by Aj Odudu and Will Best.
Both Odudu and Best will return for the celebrity version. No housemates have been confirmed as yet.
The Standard has contacted a representative for Celebrity Big Brother for comment.
