Firebrand GLENN BECK is eyeing an early exit from Fox News to start his own network.
Both the Hollywood Reporter and the NY Times report that the controversial Fox host is contemplating "partial or wholesale takeover of a cable channel" once his contract expires at Fox News Channel.
Sources say Beck has been mulling the concept of his own cable platform for more than a year but is said to not think of it as a director competitor to his current employer.
The Times cites several unnamed sources for their report that following a previous report Fox execs are keen not to renew Beck’s contract when it expires in December because of "declining viewership".
The speculative rumors follows reports that senior Fox News executive Joel Cheatwood is joining Beck’s media company Mercury Radio Arts – which The Times believes Beck intends to to ankle Fox by the end of 2011.
A Fox News spokesperson declined to comment on the report saying only Beck’s contract is "Not up until December".
The wily Beck, covered his assets however and DID issue a statement regarding the swirl of speculation as the bombastic host’s next move.
"It is an honor to do my show there (on Fox News) every night. I have no intention whatsoever of doing the show I am doing now on Fox anywhere else," Beck stated via HIS spokesperson.
STAY TUNED.
