Francis Pulled From Trump's Reality Show

Francis revealed last month (Aug08) that he had signed up to appear on the business tycoon's reality series, although network executives have yet to confirm the show's competitors.

According to the New York Post, the porn mogul has been dropped from the show amid concerns from sponsors, who are said to be troubled by his recent legal woes - which included a 12-month stint behind bars on federal tax evasion charges.

Francis tells the newspaper: "Donald Trump and I decided to do a different show. I would have added a lot to Celebrity Apprentice, and I would have been excited to do it, but I'm more excited by this other idea."

The show is set to begin recording in the autumn (08) and is scheduled for a premiere in January (09).