There is speculation in Hollywood that Nicole Richie might be replaced on Fox's "The Simple Life, The Hollywood Reporter said Friday.

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Production is set to start in late spring or early summer on the fourth season of the hit reality series, and The Reporter said "the rumor mill is going into overdrive" about the show's future. The paper said the speculation is based on a public falling out between Richie and "Simple Life" co-star Paris Hilton.

Citing sources, the paper said both Hilton and Richie are contractually obligated to appear in at least five seasons of the show, but their options for the upcoming season have not yet been picked up.

A syndicated entertainment newsmagazine, "The Insider," reported producers are looking at Rod Stewart's daughter Kimberly Stewart as a possible replacement for Richie.

PARIS HILTON SEX TAPE COVERAGE
REALITYTVWORLD: NICOLE RICHIE
REALITYTVWORLD: PARIS HILTON
REALITYTVWORLD: THE SIMPLE LIFE
SIRLINKSALOT: THE SIMPLE LIFE
THE SIMPLE LIFE MESSAGE BOARDS
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