The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 7 letter word LINKMAN
L
I
N
K
M
A
N
Buddy explains!

The straight part
We know that "figure on TV programme" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case figure on tv programme = linkman.The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.
What does LINKMAN mean?
LINKMAN noun- An adult linkboy; one bearing a torch or light.
- A player who uses speed and dexterity to keep an attacking team's downfield progress fluid.
- A man who acts as a link or connection.
- A presenter who provides the connecting verbiage between a number of separate items in a broadcast.