'Big Brother' co-creator to leave Endemol

Paul Römer, co-creator of reality show Big Brother, is leaving the programme's producer Endemol after 15 years, it has emerged.

In a statement yesterday, Endemol confirmed that Römer would step down from his position as chief creative officer of the group to "pursue other opportunities".

Endemol has reacted to his impending departure by creating a new group creative board that will include Endemol UK chief executive Tim Hincks, global president Marco Bassetti and North America chairman David Goldberg.

The company has also promoted Iris Boelhouwer to head up its creative operations.

Endemol is jointly owned by Goldman Sachs, Silvio Berlusconi's Mediaset and Cyrte, the investment firm established by John De Mol, who created Big Brother with Römer.

Earlier this month, the hit reality programme ended its decade-long run on Channel 4, but the show is still on air in more than 40 countries, including the US.

Römer, who joined Endemol in 1994, said: "During my time here there has been a complete transformation of the TV and digital media landscape and Endemol has played a central role in that. Now, after 15 incredible years, the time feels right for me to move on to new challenges."

Endemol Group chairman and chief executive Ynon Kreiz praised Römer's "outstanding track record" at Endemol and "invaluable" contribution to the business.

He added: "This has included co-developing and launching Big Brother, the most groundbreaking format of the last decade, which continues to be a colossal hit in the major markets.

"This new structure leverages our top creative talent in the group and will add further focus and strength to the support we give our local creative teams around the world."