Marketing - Friday, June 25, 2010 11:21 - 0 Comments

Ross to join the ITV bandwagon

ITV are rumoured to have agreed an extensive deal with Jonathan Ross, giving him the opportunity to host a weekly chat show.

Marketing news publications are rife with speculation on the details of the show, with Marketing Week believing that the show will take place at the weekend, akin to Ross’ current BBC ’Friday Night’ format. Indeed, The Guardian anticipates that the new chat show could be broadcast after the lucrative X-Factor on a Saturday night.

With his last show scheduled for July 16, it’s anticipated that Ross will sign a non-exclusive deal with the broadcaster that has recently lured the likes of Adrian Chiles and Christine Bleakley over from the BBC.

According to Digital Spy, Ross underwent talks with Channel 4, but these negotiations were unsuccessful in light of the appointment of new chief executive David Abraham.

After last year’s controversial ”Sachsgate” where Mr Ross and comedian Russell Brand made inappropriate phone calls to veteran actor Andrew Sachs during their Radio 2 show, the presenter’s reputation has been dented. Combined with Ross’ hefty pay revelations, the chat show host decided to hand in his notice during January this year.

Both Mr Ross and ITV have declined to comment on the matter, with media sources expecting an official statement soon.