Channel 4 makes year-long 'Deal'

Channel 4 has commissioned Deal Or No Deal for the next year in the wake of huge ratings for the teatime gameshow.

The series, fronted by Noel Edmonds, began strongly in November with 1.9 million viewers, steadily growing to a peak of 3.2 million on Friday.

The ratings mark a huge increase on the slot's previous average of 1.4 million and a 15% share. The recommission comprises 230 episodes through 2006.

“Deal or No Deal has been the break-out hit of the autumn season," said Adam MacDonald, C4''s head of daytime. "The format is working fantastically well and Noel has proved, once again, the consummate TV talent. The volume of this re-commission means that 2006 will be a big year for Deal or No Deal.???

Edmonds added: “Everyone associated with Deal or No Deal has been overwhelmed by the public response to the show. Every player is different and consequently every show is unique. I particularly enjoy the rapport that exists between myself, the players and the studio audience. It's a very long time since I've had so much fun in a TV studio and I love working with the brilliant Endemol production team. Everywhere I go people are keen to talk about the show, which clearly is now an absolute must for millions of viewers. 2006 is shaping up to be a very exciting year for both myself and Deal or No Deal.???

Meanwhile, speculation continues to grow that C4 is prepping a primetime version of the show to air as a "stunt" some time next year. US network NBC has already announced plans to strip the show across five nights in the week before Christmas.