Dick De Rijk, Endemol End Alliance

HILVERSUM: Dick De Rijk, the creator of Deal or No Deal, is ending his partnership with Endemol in order to focus on new projects "as a fully independent company," the format giant said in a statement today.

Dick de Rijk Productions BV has had a partnership with Endemol for eight years. In addition to Deal or No Deal, which has rolled out to more than 100 markets since its 2002 launch, the creative alliance between de Rijk and Endemol resulted in a number of other shows, including Set for Life and Show Me The Money.

“Endemol is one of the most dynamic and creative companies in the business and I have had an amazing time here," de Rijk said. "It’s been a privilege to be part of such an exceptionally talented and adroit team and I hope very much that we will work together on new projects in the future."

Paul Römer, Endemol’s global head of programming, added: “Dick has made a huge contribution to the success of Endemol. Deal or No Deal has become one of the world’s most successful ever game shows and is loved by audiences everywhere. We will undoubtedly look forward to possible future projects with him and I wish him every success."