Jon Richardson takes over

Jason Manford is to quit his role as team captain on 8 Out Of 10 Cats to front a new ITV1 talent hunt.

Manford, who has been with the Channel 4 quiz since taking over from Dave Spikey in 2007, will be replaced by Jon Richardson.

Meanwhile, Manford has just started filming on ITV’s ‘X-Factor-style’ show Show Me The Funny.

As Chortle reported in February, the idea is that ten unknown comics will travel to different parts of Britain to join a group of people, such as rugby players or hen nights, then perform a set based on their experiences.

An unnamed ITV source told The Mirror today: ‘They have just started filming and had the first tasks in Liverpool before performing a gig. It went really well.’

Writing on his official Facebook page this morning, Manford said: ‘It's in the paper this morning about me presenting a new show for ITV called Show me the Funny, a talent show for new comics.

‘Because of this and the tour dates I have, I have left my role as captain on 8 Out of 10 Cats. But the brilliant Jon Richardson will be taking over who will no doubt do an even better job. Hope you enjoy both shows.’

On his Twitter feed, Richardson wrote: ‘Seems the 8 Out Of 10 Cats news is out of the bag. I'm delighted to be joining as a regular on the next series.’

Richardson is currently starring in the second series of Channel 4’s Stand Up For The Week, alongside Kevin Bridges, Andi Osho, Rich Hall and Jack Whitehall.

Published: 3 May 2011