UK 'Judge Judy' to air in 'Trisha' slot

A new courtroom show similar to Judge Judy will air in Trisha's ITV slot when she quits the network eary next year, Broadcast reports this week.

The judicial format is expected to be a ratings success; Judge Judy ranks as one of ITV2's most popular programmes.

ITV's offpeak controller Steven Andrew, who has commissioned the new programme for "a significant run," said it would air alongside a new Trisha-style talkshow. He added it would be "too much" for the talkshow to occupy the hour-long slot exclusively, all year round.

Loose Women host Kaye Adams and Trisha's predecessor Vanessa Feltz have both been screen-tested for the talkshow, although a final decision on the replacement has not yet been made.