Absolutely Fabulous star Helen Lederer signs up for CBB this summer with mega £300,000 pay cheque
The actress who played Catriona in the hit sitcom has been snapped up by Channel 5 bosses
HELEN Lederer has signed up for this summer’s Celebrity Big Brother, The Sun Online can reveal.
The actress, who played Catriona in Absolutely Fabulous, was approached by Channel 5 bosses earlier this year and offered £300,000 to star in the show.
A source told The Sun Online: “Helen’s a great addition to this year’s line-up and is sure to be a big hit with fans.
“They offered her a big money deal that was hard to turn down and she’s looking forward to going into the house later this summer.”
Helen, 61, was previously approached about going into the house last year, after she proved a hit during an appearance on Big Brother’s Bit On The Side.
She told The Sun: “They did ask me once before but I was doing Calendar Girls and I was quite pleased they wouldn’t let me out.
“How do people wash with their swimming costumes on? It’s disgusting.
“But I think in the Celebrity version at least you can close the door when you need a private moment.”
Helen will be joining Gogglebox star Sandi Bogle in this series, after The Sun Online confirmed she’d also been signed up to appear.
An insider revealed: “Sandi will be great on Celebrity Big Brother – but it might take viewers a few days to get used to seeing her without Sandra.
“When she left the show last year it was because she wanted to pursue a music career, so being on the show will definitely help her boost her profile.”
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It comes after The Sun's Bizarre column exclusively revealed the producers were desperate to sign up former CBB winners, and current couple, Stephen Bear and Charlotte Crosby.
Between them, the reality stars have a long list of well-known exes, which could make for an explosive scenario in the confined spaces of the Big Brother house.
One big name who won't be going in however is former Towie star Danielle Armstrong, who has turned down the chance to be on the next series.
She told : “I didn't want to go from TOWIE straight into CBB.
“I had to take myself out of the reality bubble and focus on my personal development.”
The Sun Online has contacted Helen's representatives and Channel 5 for comment.
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