Denise Van Outen has been ordered to take elocution lessons by the bosses of her new US TV show.

The producers of Grease, a US reality show aiming to find a new cast for a Broadway revival of the popular musical, are concerned that the American audience has failed to warm to the former Big Breakfast presenter.

They are particularly concerned that the audience finds it difficult to understand her Basildon twang.

A source told the Evening Standard: "The producers thought Denise would be immensely popular with the American public, but unfortunately, it hasn't worked out.

"She is a very attractive girl and has years and years of television experience. That, along with her English accent, meant that she should have been a hit in the States, but they aren't keen on her voice.

"She has made her career over here on the fact she is a down-to-earth Essex girl, but they just don't get it in America. They are not keen on her demeanour either."