Michael Barrymore's promoters say he and his partner are back in Britain only for a short time, and plan to return to their home in New Zealand; quelling rumours that the pair have turned their backs on their new country. Entertainer Barrymore fled his native Britain in 2004 after scandal involving his coming out, and the death of a man at his home. He has since become a New Zealand resident. Rumours began circulating recently, however, that he and his partner have returned to the UK to relaunch the celebrity's career there. His promoters confirm that he has returned there for a production, but say he will be back home to New Zealand in February. Suggestions have been made that Barrymore may have signed up for the latest UK series of celebrity Big Brother, due to begin in coming weeks. The housemate line-up will be confirmed later this week.