Pregnant Denise ditched by BBC
Thursday 18 February 2010
Mum-to-be Denise van Outen has been replaced on the judging panel of BBC show Over The Rainbow 'for being pregnant', it was claimed yesterday.
The 35-year-old presenter, who is expecting her first child with husband Lee Meade, was hoping to return to the judging panel of Andrew Lloyd Webber's musical casting show in March.
But she was left shocked when a senior production member told her: "You're pregnant, so of course there's no way you can do the show".
A source close to the star said: 'Denise loved being part of Andrew's shows and was so excited to return. Her little girl is not due until May and the show starts in March, and Denise feels fit and healthy, so she thought there was no problem with her appearing on air - after all, all she has to do is sit down.'
It is believed that Denise will be replaced by mum-of-two Charlotte Church, in the search for a new Dorothy for Lord Lloyd Webber's production of The Wizzard of Oz.
The decision will undoubtedly spark new controversy around the BBC, after the corporation came under fire for replacing Stricly Come Dancing judge Arlene Philips with the younger, less experienced Alesha Dixon.
A BBC spokesman said: 'Over The Rainbow is a brand new show for BBC One with a completely new line-up of judges. None of the other five previous judges will be taking part.'
What do you think of the replacement? Fair or unfounded?
Posted by emerald
RE: Pregnant Denise ditched by BBC
If none of the other five judges are returning either as they state then Denise can't complain it's because she's pregnant ! Having said that the beeb is not alone in getting rid of pregnant women on set, it's the same the world over on every channel and nothing's going to stop that anytime soon lol!! They just find another reason! One of the main reasons they use is that they can't rely on a pregnant woman to be able to fulfill her contract, she may deliver early, she may end up bedridden with high blood pressure, and delays waiting around etc etc cost money which they aren't prepared to fork out!!
No jobs for life anymore and in the fickle world of showbiz you can't expect to be there forever!! Tess Daly managed to keep her job with Strictly throughout her pregnancy so perhaps it really just is that they're looking to revamp the show with completely all new faces! I'm sure you'll tell me if you think I'm wrong lol!!
Posted 19/02/2010 00:52:55