Judge Judy renews with CBS

Judge Judy was never the shy, retiring type and she isn’t about to start now.

The queen of the gavel has signed a new deal that sees creative association with CBS renewed through until 2020.

The new contract includes a first-look production deal with her production company, Queen Bee Productions, having recently launched Hot Bench, one of the highest-rated new hits on daytime television, averaging 2.3 million viewers a day (when multiple airings are combined). The show features three judges presiding over small claims cases, and arguing their merits in chambers.

As the Hollywood Reporter notes, a creator’s deal is usually renewed before they renew the show itself, meaning Judge Judy the show (already approved until 2017) is expected to be renewed imminently.

Sheindlin, 72, is reportedly earning about $45 million a year under her old contract (excluding Hot Bench).

“I’m thrilled to be working with my CBS family for five more years and very excited about this new adventure in production,” said Sheindlin. “I loved the experience of creating and developing Hot Bench and look forward to replicating its success with more new, compelling and smart TV.”

Judge Judy continues to be a favourite amongst TEN viewers, last week averaging 163,000 viewers in an afternoon timeslot.