Graham Norton 'will stay with BBC'

Published Friday, Sep 25 2009, 09:50 BST | By Daniel Kilkelly

Rex Features

Graham Norton has agreed to sign a new deal with the BBC, according to a report.

Earlier this month, it was suggested that Norton had been approached to return to Channel 4 when his current contract with the corporation expires at the end of the year.

However, the comedian has now decided not to switch broadcasters and is currently in the process of planning three BBC shows for 2010, The Sun claims.

A source told the newspaper: "Graham loves the BBC and is really happy working there.

"Yes, he has had some turkeys, especially Totally Saturday, but he feels he is treated well there. He has agreed to do the three shows and his agent is currently sorting out the deal."

It is thought that Norton's new contract will see his salary slashed from £2.5 million to £2 million. He has previously confirmed that he would be happy to take a pay cut due to the current financial climate.

The star is said to be in talks to front Andrew Lloyd Webber's Wizard Of Oz talent search among other future BBC projects.