'Jon & Kate' to become 'Kate Plus Eight'

TLC has announced that it is relaunching Jon & Kate Plus 8 as Kate Plus Eight, says The AP.

The network has confirmed that the reality show will be rechristened later this year to take account of the divorce proceedings of stars Jon and Kate Gosselin.

The estranged couple, who feature in the programme with their twin daughters and sextuplets, separated in June and have been filming their segments for the show separately.

TLC has insisted that Jon will continue to appear, but less often, and that the episodes will focus more on Kate's new role as a single mother.

In a statement, it said: "The programme will continue to capture the incredible lives of the eight Gosselin children and their family but will now include a deeper focus on Kate's role in the family and her journey as a single mother building the next chapter in her life.

"TLC will continue its exclusive relationship with Jon Gosselin and he will continue to appear on the show, but on a less regular basis."

The changes will come into force on November 2.