Ross will front chat show for ITV
(UKPA) – 2 hours ago
Jonathan Ross has signed a deal to present a chat show for ITV, it has been announced.
The presenter - who leaves his BBC One show next week when his contract with the Corporation runs out - is to begin his new series late next year.
He said: "I am thrilled and excited that after a short break I will be rolling up my sleeves and creating a brand new show for ITV1."
The star added: "I have worked successfully with most of the key figures at the network in the past and cannot wait to get back on screen with a fast, funny, and unpredictable new talk show.
"I do have a little spare time at the beginning of 2011 though, so if England needs a temporary new manager I will consider the post seriously. Thank you."
The series will air in a peak-time slot on ITV1 after a year's break for Jonathan, who had also been in negotiations with Channel 4.
The star had a spectacular fall from grace over the "Sachsgate" affair in which he and Russell Brand left lewd messages on the answerphone of veteran actor Andrew Sachs. He was suspended for three months over the incident.
Earlier this year Jonathan announced he would not be renewing his contract with the BBC, and his long-running Radio 2 show will come to an end this month.
Jonathan's final BBC chat show airs a week on Friday with a line-up which features David Beckham and Hollywood star Jackie Chan.
Other high-profile signings for ITV recently have included Adrian Chiles and Christine Bleakley. The former One Show hosts will be reunited on the GMTV sofa later this year.
2009 ·SuperChan's Jackie Chan Blog by TNB