Yoko Ono has criticised a British TV channel for plans to broadcast a prison cell documentary about her husband John Lennon's murderer.

Yoko said: "Myself, John's family and so many fans will be hurt by showing of such a programme."

The programme is based on journalist Jack Jones' 40 hours of taped interviews with the former Beatle's murderer, Mark Chapman, reports celebrity portal Femalefirst.

Chapman once said he shot Lennon in order to "steal his fame" and Lennon's widow fears that publicity from the show will give the killer the fame he wants.

Yoko was quoted by Britain's Daily Express newspaper as saying: "I think it's horrible to do this. It shows a lack of understanding of the painful memories of what happened to John's beautiful life."

Deranged fan Chapman shot Lennon Dec 8, 1980, outside the ex-Beatle's home shortly after asking for his autograph. He was sentenced to life imprisonment and has twice been refused parole.

But programme makers insist the issue will be handled sensitively and professionally. A spokeswoman said: "It's very much a serious documentary and will be handled accordingly. Neither Chapman nor his family have received payment."