Norton is known for his prank phone calls

Meanwhile, the BBC is in talks with film star Joan Collins regarding a possible chat show on the corporation's digital entertainment channel BBC Choice.

Norton, who has picked up two Baftas, an International Emmy and a host of other awards, said he was delighted at landing the show.

"For me, this is the holy grail of entertainment," he said.

He does not see the launch as an obvious rival to Vaughan's new BBC chat show.

He said: "I actually really like Johnny but I think we are very different. His is more of an interview-based show but mine will be more of an entertainment show. I don't see it as a chat show."

Distinct

"The best thing about going five nights a week is that we will be able to have guests on that we would not normally have room for and it won't just be about the big celebs."

Norton refuses to put the final nail in his successful So Graham Norton Friday night show, but he admits he is not sure if it will return.

"The new show will be different, there will be similarities to So Graham Norton but it will be distinct."

The camp star is also not concerned viewers will get sick off him being on their screens every night.

Norton with the Duchess of York on Comic Relief

"I don't expect people to watch it every night. People may just tune in to see who is on.

"It's only a half hour show, so hopefully it will feel like a two-and-half-hour show spread over five nights. We'll be able to have running jokes.

"We'll also be able to feature the audience more."

Danielle Lux, Channel 4's head of entertainment and comedy, added: "A project of this scale and ambition could only be undertaken by a performer with equally large amounts of talent.

"Graham is perfect, and will enter into the spirit and rigours of five nights a week with all the energy and wit that has made him one of Britain's best-loved entertainers."

Sidekick

Norton's guest wish list includes Madonna and Dame Shirley Bassey, who was all set to go on the show but watched an episode and pulled out.

Norton has personally written to her promising she will not be subject to the same humorous treatment as some of his guests.

And although his sidekick Betty is not a planned inclusion in the new show, Norton said he "would not be surprised if she turned up anyway".

A spokeswoman for BBC Choice said: "Joan Collins has been in to talk to us about an idea she had for a chat show.

"That idea is currently under consideration."

And Norton tips her for success.

"Joan Collins was a fantastic guest so I'm sure she'd make a fantastic chat show host."