Russell Brand could be making his first programme for the BBC since the Sachsgate row four years ago.

The comedian and recovering drug addict is reportedly in line to front a documentary about addiction in a similar to Stephen Fry’s 2006 film about depression.

He is said to be so keen to make the programme – and not land the BBC in any controversy – that the Guardian reports that he has offered to waive his fee.

Brand has appeared as a guest on the BBC since being forced off air over the phone call he and Jonathan Ross made to Andrew Sachs on his Radio 2 show, but has not fronted a show since then.

A BBC spokesman said: ‘We are working with Russell on a programme about addiction in the UK but it's currently only in its early stages.’