Explained: Why Gary Lineker is being snubbed by celebrities for new ITV game show The Box

Lineker is preparing for his latest TV role following his departure from the BBC. The former striker will be back on screens hosting new show The Box but has met with some early disappointments. Celebrities have been turning down the chance to appear as the show's challenges are seen as being too hard, putting potential contestants off, according to The Sun.

A source told the tabloid: "Casting for The Box is under way but it sounds like a number of stars have turned it down as they don’t fancy how hard it sounds. With I’m A Celeb, the Bushtucker Trials are awful but the pay-off is appearing on one of TV’s biggest shows. Unlike other shows, The Box isn’t about facing fears and phobias, it’s about stepping into the unknown. When the boxes open they’ll be launched into a variety of unexpected, fast-paced daring, comedic and mischievous challenges.”

Contestants on the show will be taken in boxes to mystery locations and will then take part in challenging games. The Box has been a big hit in Norway already and Lineker has said he's excited by the prospect of hosting the show.

He said in a statement: "I can't wait to host The Box. I've always felt right at home in the box on a football pitch, and whilst this is a different proposition, the fundamentals are similar. The contestants will have to quickly and masterfully work out how each game works, whilst also trying to get ahead of the competition to take control. It's going to be unpredictable and thrilling to watch, and I'm excited that I get to have a front row seat to all the action!"

Lineker will be hoping that producers can go on and convince celebrities to join the former England striker and make the show a success. The Box is currently scheduled to be broadcast in spring 2026.