ITV has defended paying stars of The Real Full Monty: Ladies’ Night, which saw the celebrities strip to raise awareness of different kinds of cancer.
The likes of Coleen Nolan, Megan McKenna, Victoria Derbyshire and Michelle Heaton were reportedly paid up to £10,000 each for appearing in the programme.
Viewers of the programme were encouraged to pledge to check their breasts for signs of cancer rather than to donate to charity, but guidance was made available for those wishing to give money.
A spokesperson for the show said: "The Real Full Monty shows' clear focus and aim was raising awareness about cancer and encouraging people to make vital health checks which can save lives. They clearly weren't television charity
"The people who took part have all been touched by cancer in some way in their lives and their passion for raising awareness was obvious to everyone watching.
"They were ITV's most watched factual shows this year, with overwhelmingly positive feedback, reaching millions of people with an important health message."
A source told The Sun: “Viewers were made to think The Real Full Monty: Ladies Night was all about raising awareness and funds for breast cancer.
“While it did raise huge awareness and encourage viewers to check their bodies a host of the stars took a massive payday in the name of charity.
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“It’s pretty appalling that this wasn’t made clear to viewers. Fans will be furious that they pocketed such huge sums.”
The women’s version followed The Real Full Monty which saw male celebrities recreate the iconic routine from the film The Full Monty.
Stars including James Argent, Ainsley Harriott, Jeff Brazier and John Partridge took part.
