Richard Osman has turned down a mega-money deal to appear on ‘The Jump’.
The ‘Pointless’ host has been approached by bosses of the winter sports show to take part in the forthcoming series in January but he has admitted he’d never agree to join the Channel 4 programme because he believes the format was "100 per cent" pinched from one made by production giants Endemol, where he is creative director.
Taking to his Twitter account on Wednesday (19.10.16), he said: "Just got asked if I’d consider appearing on ‘The Jump’. Considering it was 100% ripped off from an Endemol format it’s a possible no from me.
"Been working in TV for 25 years, similar ideas swim round all the time ‘The Jump’ is the only time I’ve genuinely felt wronged by others. (sic)"
The 45-year-old presenter didn’t divulge which show he believes ‘The Jump’ was "ripped from" but it’s believed he may be referring to his series ‘The Games’.
The latter show ran on Channel 4 from 2003 until 2006 and saw celebrities compete in Olympic-style events such as gymnastics, diving, weight-lifting, kayaking and hurdles.
‘The Jump’ – which was initially called ‘The Alpine Games’ – has a very similar layout in that stars compete in winter sports including ski jumping, skeleton and bobsleigh.
However, a representative from Twofour – which produces the popular show – is adamant they never took anyone else’s idea and it’s completely "original."
A spokesperson told the Daily Star newspaper "We’re big fans of Richard’s but it’s pointless to suggest ‘The Jump’ is anything other than an original idea by Twofour."
‘The Jump’ is scheduled to return in three months’ time but it’s thought bosses may be struggling to secure 12 celebrities to take part this time around after more than half were badly injured in the last series and are still battling with their aches and pains now.
Beth Tweddle was among those seriously hurt as she broke her back and required months of rehabilitation to help her walk again, Mark-Francis Vandelli snapped his ankle and needed two operations, while Tina Hobley dislocated her shoulder.
Richard Osman snubs The Jump
