Jonathan Ross could work with rival broadcasters from next year

Jonathan Ross’s £18 million 3 year contract comes to an end next year and the presenter could end up working on rival channels. At present Ross is subject to an exclusivity clause which prevents him from working for any other network, however his next contract is expected to be considerably less than his current one as the BBC are keen to be make cut backs in light of he current economic climate. It’s likely that the clause will also be lifted if a less lucrative deal is struck giving Wossie the freedom to work on other projects outside the BBC.

It was also announced this week that Jonathan is to be reinstated as the host of the Comedy Awards after he was replaced last year by Angus Deayton following the Sachsgate scandal. This year will be the 20^th anniversary of the awards which are due to take place in the run-up to Christmas. Ross said “I’m delighted – it’s the most prestigious awards show in the world. Obama may have a Nobel Prize. But he’s not even in the running for Best Entertainment personality. It’s that prestigious.” The comedy awards will be shown on ITV, Ross has a special agreement which allows him to work for the rival broadcaster to host the popular one-off show.

Negotiations for Ross’s new contract are currently being discussed however it’s extremely unlikely he’ll be offered anything near the £6 million a year deal he enjoyed previously which made him the Beeb’s highest paid presenter. Sources close to Jonathan say he will continue his flagship Friday Night With Jonathan Ross Show for the BBC but is open to the possibility of working with other broadcasters.