Seven is set to announce Larry Emdur as the new host of The Chase as early as tomorrow
That’s the rumour doing the rounds in TV circles as one of the most coveted roles in television comes up for grabs.
As previously reported Seven failed to renew Andrew O’Keefe‘s contract at the end of 2020 after a tumultuous year which saw production halted on The Chase multiple times as great expense.
Last week O’Keefe was charged by police over domestic violence allegations, charges he denies and plans to fight. But it was the last straw for Seven who had already set out to replace him, so they made his fate known publicly.
Now sources at Seven are adamant Larry Emdur has the gig.
Larry, not known for hanging around the office when not on air, has been spotted in many closed-door meetings over the past week. He has made no secret of his desire for a new challenge and he is well-liked by bosses at Seven.
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The departure of O’Keefe has been in the works for some time.
There are few people more respected and liked in the television industry than Larry. When speaking on 2GB with Ben Fordham this week Peter Ford, who is the entertainment reporter for The Morning Show, said:
“Well 7 have got one of the great game and quiz show hosts of all time there on the books. He’s got a broad appeal and is the ultimate professional. It would be insane to not have him at the top of their shortlist”
Last week we asked TV Blackbox readers who should replace O’Keefe and we had 300 comments on the one article (and just for the record I did suggest Larry – just saying). The importance of The Chase to Seven cannot be overstated and replacing O’Keefe is an important decision which will make or break the show.
The Chase is one of the biggest shows on TV. It outrates a number of prime time shows and provides a healthy lead-in to the 6pm news. There’s no doubt Larry would be Seven’s first choice for this important role.
It’s understood Larry will continue to co-host The Morning Show with Kylie Gillies but will miss episodes when shooting The Chase.
