Carolla, Gibson, Takei to compete on 'Apprentice'

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NEW YORK, Jan. 4 (UPI) -- Former talk-show host Arsenio Hall, rocker Dee Snider and author Victoria Gotti have signed up to compete on "The Celebrity Apprentice" in New York, NBC said.

Also set to appear on the business-themed reality show are radio host Adam Carolla, one-time "Incredible Hulk" star Lou Ferrigno, magician/comedian Penn Jillette, "Star Trek" actor George Takei, IndyCar legend Michael Andretti, and "American Chopper" star Paul Teutul, Sr.

The female contestants include supermodel Cheryl Tiegs, pop star Debbie Gibson, actress and singer Tia Carrere, comedienne Lisa Lampanelli, former Miss Universe Dayana Mendoza, singer and actress Aubrey O'Day, actress and model Patricia Velasquez, and "Real Housewives of New Jersey" star Teresa Giudice.

"This season of 'Celebrity Apprentice' will be the most exciting yet. The show will be great, with a record number of contestants and 15 episodes. We are thrilled to bring 18 new and talented celebrities who will help me make 'The Celebrity Apprentice' one of the hottest shows on television this spring. This will be Season 12 -- Amazing!" host-executive producer Donald Trump said in a statement Wednesday.

"We've never seen such a smart and funny group as this year's lineup of celebrities," added executive producer Mark Burnett. "'Celebrity Apprentice' is better than ever, and it's all for a great purpose -- raising millions for charity."

All 18 celebrity contestants will compete with the goal of raising money and awareness for their charities of choice. The last person standing will receive a $250,000 bonus check to their designated charity, NBC said.

"Celebrity Apprentice," which is to debut Feb. 12.