A surprise announcement to those who enjoy their cinematic criticism from their television: Richard Roeper has given the finger to his television day job.
Richard Roeper has given two thumbs down—and two weeks’ notice—to a contract offer for his stalwart movie review show.
After being unable to agree to terms to renew his contract with show producers, the Chicago Sun-Times columnist announced plans to leave At the Movies With Ebert & Roeper after eight seasons cohosting with Roger Ebert.
Roeper’s last flick of the thumb will come the weekend of Aug. 16-17. The following week, At the Movies will be in the unprecedented predicament of being without either of its titular critics.
“Several months ago, Disney offered to extend my contract, which expires at the conclusion of the 2007-08 season,” Roeper said. “I opted to wait. Much transpired after that behind the scenes, but an agreement was never reached, and we are all moving on.”
Should be interesting to see what happens to the long-running show now. With Roeper gone, and Ebert probably not coming back due to ongoing health concerns/lack of jaw, the show might be pooched.
At the very least, they’d have to change the title. “At The Movies With Whoever We Can Find” lacks the same ring, you know?
(via E!Online)
1 comment so far ↓
Uncle Roger is for sure not coming back, according to the AP. He says that he won’t be associated with the new direction Disney-ABC is taking the show.
Leave a Comment