NY Times Media Decoder has learned that Don Imus is departing RFD-TV, which could indicate even more clearly that a new TV opportunity is ahead for Imus:
Clearing the way for the Fox Business Network to simulcast his radio show, Don Imus said Wednesday that he was leaving RFD-TV, the rural television network that has shown “Imus in the Morning” for almost two years. RFD will carry his radio show for the final time on Friday.
TVNewser has previously reported that Imus was in talks with Fox Business Network and had heard that an arrangement could come in September. Imus’ RFD-TV contract wasn’t set to end for another three years, so news could soon be coming from FBN.
A joint statement is posted after the jump.
NEW YORK, NY (August 26, 2009) – Don Imus and Windmill Productions have mutually agreed to end their relationship effective September 1, making Friday, August 28, 2009 the last television broadcast of “Imus In The Morning” on RFD-TV and RFD HD.
Radio broadcasts of “Imus In The Morning” will continue to be produced by WABC Radio in New York and heard on 65 affiliates across the country courtesy of Citadel Broadcasting.
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Patrick Gottsch, Founder & President of RFD-TV, LLC: “We are so thankful to Don Imus, who has contributed immensely to the unprecedented growth experienced by RFD-TV over the past two years. The awareness created by our carriage of ‘Imus In The Morning’ has led to RFD-TV distribution agreements with Comcast, Verizon FiOS TV, Time Warner, and Cox Cable for our independent channel. We are extremely grateful to Don for all his support.”
Don Imus, Host of “Imus In The Morning”: “I will always appreciate the support of Patrick and RFD-TV in launching the new ‘Imus In The Morning’ program. I wish RFD-TV the best of luck moving forward.”