AN ITV scheme to make Geri Halliwell the new Cilla Black has been scrapped – because the Spice Girls have taken up all her time.
Ginger Spice was in talks about making a primetime feelgood “people power” show.
The programme would have seen the 35-year-old singer and mum-of-one hook up viewers who lack confidence with inspiring celebs.
For example, someone who was worried about being overweight would get a surprise visit from Little Britain star Matt Lucas.
But following the Spice Girls’ announcement that they are reforming, the plug has now been pulled on the project.
An insider said: “ITV were keen on the show and Geri was in talks about it — but the reunion has now put the kibosh on the idea.
Spice Girls boss Simon Fuller has big plans for Geri and sadly there’s no room to do this show.”
We revealed how the girls are also making a major documentary to coincide with their world tour, which kicks off in December.
ITV producers had approached Geri for the Cilla-style show as she is no stranger to personal crises.
Her solo career was short-lived and she once became painfully thin.
But she has fought back and is now a picture of health and mum to one-year old daughter Bluebell.
Producers had thought she could fill the gap left by Cilla, who effectively quit TV in 2003.
One said: “No one really does that sort of feelgood telly any more. Geri would have been good at it.”
Source: The Sun