Top Gun Joins ITV

John Kaye Cooper is to become ITV's controller of Entertainment.
The veteran TV executive, currently the creative director of independent productions company Talent TV, will replace Duncan Gray who is leaving after a two year stint.
Kaye Cooper is also a former controller of entertainment at LWT where he commissioned hugely popular and successful shows such as 'Blind Date', 'Catchphrase', 'Barrymore' and 'It'll Be Alright on The Night'.
Kaye Cooper will begin his role before new ITV director of television, Peter Fincham joins the broadcaster on May 12.
He will report to director of entertainment and comedy, Paul Jackson.
Kaye Cooper said: "I have had 12 terrific years at Talent TV but most of my career has been with ITV and this is a tremendous challenge I simply could not resist.
"I am really looking forward to working with Paul Jackson's team, and all the entertainment production companies to consolidate, enhance and refresh what is already a vibrant portfolio of hits."
Jackson added: "John Kaye Cooper is one of the most respected names in entertainment broadcasting and I'm delighted that we've persuaded him to come back to ITV.
“Entertainment programming is key to the ITV schedule and John's experience and enthusiasm make him the perfect person to take on this role at such an exciting time."
Kaye Cooper joined TVS as controller of entertainment in 1984.
Since then he has commissioned show which now have a cult status such as 'Beadle's About', 'Hale and Pace', 'Surprise Surprise', 'You Bet!' and Bruce Forsyth's 'Play Your Cards Right'.
(DS/JM)