Griffin hopeful for Matthews' MSNBC future

NEW YORK, Dec. 20 (UPI) -- MSNBC President Phil Griffin says he hopes former "Hardball" host Chris Matthews will stay with the U.S. TV network to host the political series.

Griffin said while Matthews has been rumored to be considering a possible U.S. Senate run in his native Pennsylvania, he is confident the political pundit will remain with "Hardball," The Hollywood Reporter said Friday.

"I've talked to Chris. I think he's going to be here for a long time," Griffin said. "I want him to be here for a long time."

Neither Griffin nor Matthews, 63, would confirm reports the "Hardball" Star is eyeing a campaign battle against U.S. Sen. Arlen Specter, R-Pa.

The Reporter said if Matthews does stay with MSNBC and "Hardball," his renewed involvement would come as the TV duo are enjoying a very successful ratings year.

The industry publication said MSNBC could potentially be tabbed the fastest-growing cable network of 2008 thanks to series such as "Hardball," which has enjoyed an 89 percent viewer increase since 2007.