Jonathan Ross' BBC Departure Could Spell Trouble For Music Industry

A leading music industry figure has warned that broadcaster Jonathan Ross' decision to quit the BBC may have an adverse impact on established and emerging British talent trying to secure exposure to a mainstream audience.

The talk show host and radio presenter has just six months left on his contract with the corporation and his popular chat show, 'Friday Night...with Jonathan Ross,' climaxes with a regular music slot. Recent appearances have included the Killers, U2, the Stooges and Robbie Williams.

Speaking to NME.com, James Sandom of SuperVision Management,who looks after the Cribs and Kaiser Chiefs, has claimed that the show's demise will leave a "hole" that could be detrimental to the music industry.

He said: "Like him or loathe him, its undeniable Jonathan Ross has given artists one of the few platforms to reach a mainstream audience in the UK.

"His show was one of the few avenues for developing artists to guarantee mass TV exposure."

He continued: "I hope the BBC fill the hole left by Jonathan's departure with a show that still provides this opportunity. UK artists and the music business in this country needs this."

Read Spinner's list of the best late-night TV show musical performances.