Contestant in ITV2 boxing reality series commits suicide

Turpin did not make it to the final. It is not known whether his suicide was directly related to his appearance on the show but it raises the question of whether reality TV exploits vulnerable people.

John Beyer, director of Mediawatch, said: "We are aware of reality TV's drive to find controversial people to appear in its shows. Clearly, if this man was disturbed it raises serious questions about the people who apply who are selected by programme makers."

The 13-part series was to begin broadcasting on NBC on March 7 and on ITV2 later this year.

The show's producers in the US have said it will go ahead as planned.

"Nothing changes. I'm not even going to make any edits because it's real," said Mark Burnett of Mark Burnett Productions, one of the co-producers of the series.

An ITV spokeswoman has not confirmed whether the network will now broadcast the series, which was to be one of the highlights of its summer schedule. The company will issue a statement shortly.

Former 'Big Brother' contestants have often criticised the show's producers for subjecting them to emotional strain.

Tim Culley from 'Big Brother 3' moved to Spain after the series ended because of the baiting from the press and public. BB3 runner-up Jade Goody became one of the hated women in Britain following tabloid press reports during her stay in the house.

The official NBC website features a brief biography of each boxer. Turpin's says he was born and raised in the ghetto.

"Najai is extremely soft spoken, polite and a very motivated and focused fighter. His mother died when he was 18 years old and Najai was left to raise his younger brother, sister, niece and nephew. He still cares for them even though his grandmother and brothers have stepped up to help," the web entry reads.

'The Contender' is a joint production between Mark Burnett Productions, DreamWorks Television and Rogue Marble. Stallone, Burnett and Jeffrey Katzenberg are the executive producers.

If you have an opinion on this or any other issue raised on Brand Republic, join the debate in the <a href="http://forum.brandrepublic.com" target="_blank">Forum here