Two-year ITV1 contract

Harry Hill has signed a deal with ITV worth a reported £500,000.

The two-year contract will allow the comic to develop ideas away from stand-up.

In July, Chortle revealed how he was working on The All New Harry Hill Show, a prime-time variety programme. (story)

Another suggested idea is that Hill, 36, become a new Clive James, with a show taking a "sideways look at" culture.

Channel 4 dropped his cult show after three series last year, amid fears ratings were not high enough

The former doctor joked: "I've heard ITV has a bigger canteen than Channel 4, although I appreciate that some puddings may run out towards the end of a sitting and I may have to choose again."

And ITV boss David Liddiment said: "I'm delighted Harry Hill is coming to ITV1.

"I've been a fan for a long time. He is a terrific comedian, a really funny man with enormously broad appeal to viewers."

"We have big plans for Harry. He is keen for a fresh challenge. He is developing a number of new ideas for us and we believe he has the talent to do a lot more."

Published: 10 Oct 2001