As fans of The Only Way Is Essex may know, former Big Brother housemate Brian Belo has taken legal action against ITV and Lime Pictures, claiming that the hit ITV2 reality show TOWIE was his idea.

And today, it’s been revealed that TOWIE star Sam Faiers may be summoned to give a witness statement supporting Brian’s legal action, in which he claims he’s been the victim of copyright infringement.

Sam may be called to give evidence as a result of her mentioning in the first chapter of her book – which is entitled, Living The Essex Way – that Brian approached her to discuss a pilot for a reality show that he was discussing with Sassy Films before TOWIE aired…

In the book, Sam wrote, “Brian is upset as he got no credit for bringing the main characters to the table.”

A Lime Pictures spokesman said, “Lime and ITV have stated previously that we believe our defence to the claim is strong and that it will be vigorously defended.

“That remains our position.”

Meanwhile, Amy Childs, who of course formerly starred in TOWIE has intimated her support of Brian’s legal action, as have other cast members who claim they were approached for Brian’s show before Lime Pictures brought The Only Way Is Essex to ITV.

We will of course keep you posted on any developments in the case, but in the meantime, here’s a promo clip from Brian’s pilot episode…