Fern Britton is being lined up to replace Paul O'Grady in the Channel 4 teatime slot, according to the Mirror. The paper reports that that former This Morning presenter is in advanced talks with bosses at the channel - and is close to signing a deal worth seven figures. Fern is considered to be the absolutely perfect replacement for Paul," an insider said. "The viewers love her because she is so bubbly and charismatic. "And, just like her predecessor, she isn't reliant on the Autocue. She has a gentle, off-the-cuff humour, which is perfect for teatime television, and has a proven background." Britton left This Morning in July 2009 after 10 years. Holly Willoughby has since taken over as the show's co-presenter alongside Phillip Schofield. Since her departure she and Schofield have been back on screen together as presenters of All Star Mr And Mrs on ITV1. And last month she pulled off the biggest coup of her career, scoring an interview with former Prime Minister Tony Blair for her BBC show Fern Britton Meets. Paul O'Grady, meanwhile, presented his final chat show on Channel 4 just before Christmas. He has signed a deal with ITV1 and will be fronting a new Friday night show for them later this year.
