Andre rejects 'Strictly' opportunity

Peter Andre has turned down an invitation to appear as a contestant on 'Strictly Come Dancing'.

The 37-year-old singer reportedly told BBC One bosses he would have to decline their offer to appear in the ballroom dance competition, as he wouldn't have time to rehearse because of his upcoming arena tour.

This is the latest in a series of blows for show producers who had hoped to cash in on Peter's soaring popularity since splitting from his ex-wife Katie Price.

A source told The Sun newspaper: "'Strictly' really wanted Peter Andre. He's got a massive fan base and would be a huge draw for the show."

Other stars to turn down a place on the reality competition include former world heavyweight champion boxer Lennox Lewis, Britain's Duchess of York - aka Sarah Ferguson - and rugby star Will Carling.

The BBC are now said to be chasing a host of soap stars including 'EastEnders' actress Tiana Benjamin (Chelsea Fox) and her former co-stars Charlie Clements (Bradley Branning) and Rob Kazinsky (Sean Slater) with 'Hollyoaks' Carley Stenson (Steph Cunningham) also being considered.

However, it's not just the contestants who are causing headaches for bosses.

Host Bruce Forsyth reportedly issued an ultimatum recently, telling bosses to "secure the top stars or I'm leaving", and is refusing to sign a new deal until big name contestants are confirmed.