There was a rumbling yesterday about the BBC getting shot of him, which were mentioned in
, but - low and behold - this rumour turned out to be based in reality. Except that Ross has left of his own accord. Allegedly.
Ross's statement reads (do the Wossy voice in your head): "Although I have had a wonderful time working for the BBC, and am very proud of the shows I have made while there, over the last two weeks I have decided not to re-negotiate when my current contract comes to an end. While there I have worked with some of the nicest and most talented people in the industry and had the opportunity to interview some of the biggest stars in the world, and am grateful to the BBC for such a marvellous experience. I would like to make it perfectly clear that no negotiations ever took place and that my decision is not financially motivated. I signed my current contract with the BBC having turned down more lucrative offers from other channels because it was where I wanted to be and - as I have said before - would happily have stayed there for any fee they cared to offer, but there were other considerations. I love making my Friday night talk show, my Saturday morning radio show and the Film Programme, and will miss them all. I look forward to continuing work on these shows until the Summer, and I will continue hosting the Bafta Film Awards, Comic Relief and other BBC specials. Working at the BBC has been a tremendous privilege, and I would like to thank everyone who has watched and listened so loyally over the last 13 years."
He later Tweeted: "Thanks for all the kind words about my decision. I feel sad that I can't keep making the shows so many of you love! Don't worry, I won't stop tweeting!"
Director of BBC Vision Jana Bennett added: "Jonathan Ross has told us that he's decided not to pursue the renewal of his contract with the BBC. Jonathan is an extremely talented broadcaster and his programmes for BBC TV and Radio have been a great success. However, it's been a difficult year for him and I understand why he feels it's the right thing to do. I'm pleased that Jonathan will continue to apply his considerable abilities to the remaining six months of Friday Night, Film 2010 and his Radio 2 show, and I'm delighted that he will continue to present the BAFTA awards and Comic Relief for BBC Television."
Our alternative to The Late Late has been ripped from us. We only have the grey glimmer of Graham Norton taking over the slot to keep us warm.
