Jonathan Ross Quits BBC After 13 Years, Will Not Re-negotiate

by Blaine Metzgar | January 7, 2010 at 10:06 am

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Jonathan Ross, a veritable household name in the United Kingdom, has quit the BBC after 13 years. In a statement the 49 year-old host of Friday Night With Jonathan Ross confirmed he will not re-negotiate his contract come July.

"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.

Ross' resignation comes after a controversy-filled year including being accused for making a homophobic remark on his radio show in May of 2009 when he said, "If your son asks for a Hannah Montana MP3 player, then you might want to already think about putting him down for adoption in later life, when they settle down with their partner."

Following the announcement, Ross took to his Twitter account to thank his fans for their support.

Hello again. 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 !

Big wigs at the BBC including director of BBC Vision, Jana Bennett, have commented on Ross' decision saying, "it's been a difficult year for him and I understand why he feels it's the right thing to do."

Alan Yentob, Creative Director of the BBC, confirmed that they have yet to decide upon a replacement for Ross but the general opinion is that Graham Norton will take his Friday night spot.