Credlin and Keneally lead prime-time shake-up for Sky News Live

Sky News will launch a new national affairs program featuring two of Australia’s most experienced female political figures, former NSW Premier Kristina Keneally and Peta Credlin, former Chief of Staff to Prime Minister Tony Abbott.

Credlin & Keneally is the channel’s first regular program in prime-time to be led by two female co-anchors and will join the line-up each week from Wednesday 16 November at 8:00pm AEDT on SKY NEWS LIVE (Channel 601).

The launch of the new program comes as Sky confirms a number of changes to its prime-time schedule. The existing Wednesday night discussion program hosted by Peter Beattie & Peter Reith will soon move to Monday’s at 8pm.

Viewpoint hosted by Chris Kenny will be reduced to once per week on Sunday nights. The decision was made by the in-demand News Corp columnist as he seeks to reduce his workload. A new program will soon be announced for the Friday 8pm timeslot.

As Sky News contributors, Credlin and Keneally sharp observations drove the news agenda during the 2016 federal election. Now each week they will dissect the power plays, political machinations and policy prescriptions on offer from their distinct points of view.

Keneally said: “It’s great to have the opportunity for Peta and I to explore, engage and probe the policy and politics of the day in this format. I expect a free flowing conversation, and that there will be times we surprise each other and viewers on where we agree, and where we don’t.”

Credlin said: “This show won’t be political debate as usual. Sure we will discuss what’s happening but we’re also keen to explore why it is happening and why it matters. It will be a rare chance to take people behind the play and with our mix of federal/state, Labor/Liberal, front line/back office experience, I reckon we cover the field.”

The skilled political strategists have both exercised leadership from the centre of government, undertaken the big policy decisions and fought to shape the political narrative.

Their exclusive insights will bring viewers an unparalleled depth of understanding as they interpret not only the political manoeuvres and policies affecting the nation, but delve into the real issues driving opinion and debate.