Pippa Payout? U.S. Networks Allegedly Battling Over Royal Interview

By Alex Weprin 

A pair of U.K. tabloids report that a handful of U.S. networks are in a battle to secure the first stateside TV interview with Pippa Middleton, the sister of Princess Kate, and sister-in-law of Prince William.

Middleton is about to start promoting a new book about party planning, so the race is on. While the tabloids all hint that a payout is in the works, another option that networks will put on the table is that of reach.

NBC could offer an interview on “Today,” an appearance on “Ellen” and perhaps a primetime appearance. ABC could offer a primetime hour, as well as a slot on “Good Morning America,” etc. For what it is worth, an ABC insider says that the idea of Walters pushing for a 6-figure payout is “absurd.”

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The Daily Mirror reports:

Pippa, who signed a reported £400,000 deal to write about laying on events, has graced the cover of dozens of US mags. Insiders at OWN, Oprah’s network, say that the chief, 57, has told them to “pull out all the stops” to get Pippa. 

ABC TV legend Barbara Walters, 82, is pushing bosses to offer a six-figure deal for the chat.

Rival network NBC has lined up a slot on Ellen De Generes’ popular after-noon show.

Meanwhile, the Daily Mail notes:

Pippa is expected to donate any fee to charity.

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