Channel 4 names new entertainment boss

Channel 4 has hired Derren Brown - The Events executive producer Justin Gorman as its new head of entertainment to replace Andrew Newman.

In his role at independent production firm Objective, Gorman gained notoriety for producing Brown's groundbreaking series for Channel 4, including the high-profile How To Win The Lottery episode.

From January 2010, he will take over from Newman, who moves in the opposite direction to take on a position at Objective.

Reporting to head of Channel 4 Julian Bellamy, Gorman will oversee all commissioning of entertainment programming across the main channel and E4.

"This is a key moment for entertainment on both Channel 4 and E4. The freeing up of commissioning hours and cash brought about by the decision not to recommission Big Brother means there are a multitude of opportunities in this area," said Bellamy.

"Great entertainment is a key part of Channel 4, and I look forward to working closely with Justin to find the next generation of groundbreaking entertainment shows for the channel."

In his broadcasting career, Gorman has also worked at Hat Trick, Granada and Princess Productions, and been involved with ITV1 shows Popstars, Blind Date and The Cube.