Gary Lineker is reportedly planning a new cookery show that could rival MasterChef, putting him in direct competition with the BBC. His production company, Goalhanger, which produces The Rest Is... series, is exploring "exciting new formats" that may include a food programme.
Goalhanger's New Formats
According to reports, Goalhanger is considering a food show, and names like Jamie Oliver have been floated as potential hosts. However, no plans have been confirmed yet, and details remain under wraps.
A source told The Sun: "Since lockdown Gary has become a massive foodie, and is regularly in the kitchen conjuring up feasts for friends and family. Doing a food show has long been his dream, but he didn't know if he could."
Potential Hosts and Excitement
The insider added: "Last week the board held meetings to discuss new formats, and a brilliant new cookery show was front and centre. A few names, including Jamie's, were thrown around, and an ad has now gone up looking for an experienced producer."
"Food content is absolutely massive on TikTok and Instagram, and this would be a natural extension of this - giving people what they want in a new, longer-form way, but with brilliant, hugely clippable moments being pushed online. Everyone is really excited."
However, Jamie's "incredibly busy schedule" may prevent him from hosting. It's unclear which platform the show would air on, but since leaving the BBC last year, Lineker's The Rest Is Football podcast moved to Netflix.
Lineker's BBC Earnings
This comes weeks after Lineker appeared on the BBC's high earners list despite working only two months in the past financial year. He earned £325,000-£329,999 in his final months, having previously been the highest-paid presenter at £1.35 million a year. Other top earners included Greg James, Stephen Nolan, Laura Kuenssberg, Vernon Kay, and Alan Shearer. Since leaving the BBC in May last year, Lineker has signed contracts with ITV and Netflix.
