The Stage

Ross renews BBC deal despite rivals’ big money bids

Published Friday 9 June 2006 at 11:40 by Liz Thomas

Jonathan Ross has renewed his deal with the BBC, after months of negotiations with the Corporation and offers from ITV and Channel 4 in excess of £15 million.

The new deal secures the award-winning entertainer to the BBC for a further three years on his current contract, which draws to a close at the end of this year. It is understood that the BBC has paid more than its initial offer of £12.5 million to ensure that the star continues to front his Friday night chatshow, Film 2006 and Hollywood Greats. He said: “I’m delighted to be staying with the BBC if only because it is the only studio I can drive to without getting lost. It is the best channel in the country and I’m proud they want me back.”

The fee is in addition to his salary of more than £500,000 for hosting his Radio 2 show on Saturdays.

Peter Fincham, controller of BBC1, said: “Jonathan is a uniquely talented broadcaster and is at the very top of his game.He’s one of the defining faces of BBC1 and his Friday night chatshow is the best in the business. We’re all delighted he’s staying.”