Jonathan Ross’ chat show will be "rested" this spring.
The 59-year-old presenter has typically fronted two series a year of his self-titled Saturday night programme but he won’t be returning to screens for some time in 2020 amid claims the show is "struggling" with falling ratings.
A source told The Sun newspaper’s Bizarre TV column: "There’s no doubting Jonathan is one of telly’s best chat show hosts, but his series is really struggling.
"When a show is rested, that usually means a broadcaster is hoping they can find something better to replace it and that certainly seems the case here."
A show spokesperson confirmed there will be no spring series next year.
The ITV representative said: "’The Jonathan Ross Show’ will return later in 2020."
However, Jonathan – whose show also took a break in spring 2018 – still has plenty to keep him busy as in the new year he will be joining Rita Ora, Davina McCall and Ken Jeong on the judging panel of celebrity talent show ‘The Masked Singer’, which will be hosted by Joel Dommett.
The contest originated in South Korea with a US version pulling in 12 million viewers earlier this year, and sees 12 stars disguised in costumes head-to-toe as they sing in front of the judges.
Jonathan previously said: "I loved the American version of the show so can’t wait to try and uncover the mystery UK superstars hiding beneath the masks. It should be great fun!"
And Joel admitted he was most excited about getting the chance to befriend the veteran broadcaster.
He said: "I’m incredibly excited and proud to be hosting ‘The Masked Singer’ for ITV.
"I’ve been a huge fan of the show in the US and being a part of it here is a dream come true!
"The panel is brilliant and it’s an incredible idea – I think the UK is going to love it.
"In all seriousness this is my best chance to become friends with Jonathan Ross and I’m not going to mess it up."
Jonathan Ross Show taking a break
