With race row still rumbling, new British 'Big Brother' kicks off

0 Comments | AFP, May, 2007

LONDON (AFP) — A reality television show which sparked a racist bullying row involving Bollywood star Shilpa Shetty was back on air for a new series Wednesday.

But moments before the eighth series of "Big Brother" got under way, broadcasters Channel 4 were forced to screen details of the "significant failings" detected by communications watchdog Ofcom over the row.

In January, Ofcom received nearly 45,000 complaints about alleged racist material which centred on Shetty's treatment at the hands of fellow contestants on the celebrity version of the show.

She was insulted by fellow stars including Jade Goody -- a former reality TV celebrity whose profile has plummeted since -- and former Miss Great Britain Danielle Lloyd.

Shetty also rowed with fellow...