Producers have defended making a television show séance trying to contact John Lennon.

Starcast Productions were also behind The Spirit of Diana, the widely-criticised programme that tried to talk to the Princess after her death.

“People say this is disgusting and I accept that criticism," said the company's Paul Sharratt. "But we’re making a serious attempt to do something that many, many millions of people around the world think is possible.” More than 500,000 people watched the show, despite a pay-per-view cost of $14.95.

Sharratt says the former Beatle was chosen for his iconic status and also because of his awareness of the religious and spiritual. ”Lennon was very interested in the spiritual world," he explained. "It’s a natural follow-up to the Diana séance.”

Producers have not sought the permission of Lennon's estate for the show, which will air on April 24 on a pay-per-view basis and cost $9.95. Sharratt noted, however: “We are writing to Yoko and contacting friends this week to see if any people associated with Lennon would take part.”