The real deal?

Jade had barely joined the Bigg Boss house before being flown back to the UK after the shocking news, writes Namya Sinha.

Jade Goody had barely joined the Bigg Boss house before she was being flown back to the UK, after a shocking revelation that she had cervical cancer.

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The British reality TV star’s inclusion in Bigg Boss — hosted by former rival Shilpa Shetty — has been making headlines across the country for the past week. Less than 48 hours into the show, Goody learnt that she had cervical cancer.

According to a leading UK newspaper, Jade was called into the Diary Room where she spoke to her consultant in UK by phone. She was reportedly hysterical as she announced to her housemates: “I have cancer”.

The timing has got people questioning what really went on behind the scenes before the announcement, which will undoubtedly push up the show’s ratings. “You know the way the world is. People will go to any length to get publicity, but at the same time I feel sorry for Jade Goody,” said designer Nainika Karan.

Australian Big Brother set the country talking when a contestant wasn’t informed of her father’s death even a week after the funeral.

Jade has a history of cancer scares. She tested negative in 2004 and 2006. But the 27-year-old went in for tests again after four fainting spells days before leaving for India.

The show’s producers and the channel expressed their shock and said they were extending all possible support. Big Boss host Shilpa Shetty said, “It is unbelievable… I pray she comes out of this soon and stronger.” Jade Goody left Mumbai yesterday afternoon.

Inputs from Itee Dewan and Malvika Nanda