The host of CNN’s Anderson Cooper 360 and frequent Live with Regis and Kelly guest host is in “deep talks” for a syndicated daytime talk show, which would be pitched to networks next year. This show would not have a hard news focus and would cover “everything from celebrities and pop culture to social issues and wide-interest news stories.” Cooper would continue hosting 360 under the agreement. The deal is apparently somewhat “complex” in that CNN currently has an exclusive contract with Cooper, and The Hollywood Reporter warns that while talks have lasted for more than a month and “may close by the end of the week,” the deal is not yet a “sure thing.” But that’s not going to stop us from writing a euphoric Facebook status about the possibility of getting double the Silver Fox on our TVs next year.
Anderson Cooper negotiating for daytime talk show [HR]
Update: This morning CNN sent out a hasty and slightly cryptic statement:
Jim Walton, President, CNN Worldwide: “I am pleased that Anderson Cooper has extended his relationship with CNN and will be with us for years to come. I am also pleased to congratulate Anderson on his new relationship with Telepictures. We think it will be good for Anderson, good for CNN and good for Time Warner.”
