Welcome to a new weekly column looking at the world of TV.
Has TODAY found its own Kochie?
The story of how Seven’s David Koch went from finance reporter to breakfast TV star is the stuff of legend and now Channel 9 could be set to replicate his success with their own finance reporter.
Melbourne’s Chris Kohler has been co-hosting WEEKEND TODAY for the past couple of weeks and word is executives are impressed.
The young dad from Melbourne has transitioned from reporter to presenter with ease and has shown he can handle any type of interview.
His ascension leaves Nine with a Summer cast of riches.
Tracy Vo moved back to Perth around 3 years ago for family reasons but is back in Sydney at the moment co-hosting TODAY’s weekday show.
A very popular member of the newsroom, Vo is also impressing executives with the growth she has shown in her presenting skills since she was last a reporter in Sydney.
Expect to see more of Tracy on our screens on the national breakfast show.
And what about David Campbell?
You might have noticed Campbell has been the go-to fill-in for Karl Stefanovic – and there’s a reason for that.
Audiences love him.
Research shows viewers love his style, sense of fun and entertainment chops.
The only problem for Nine’s big bosses is having too many choices – a good problem to have.
Will AOK ever be OK again?
Addiction is a terrible thing. As I watch the ongoing coverage of Andrew O’Keefe I keep hoping he will get the help he needs.
The man who brought so much success to Channel 7 is unlikely to ever find work in the TV industry again, despite his talent.
And while he makes great fodder for the tabloid press, we have to remember this is a man who is trying to cope with life.
I know Andrew and I like Andrew.
That does not excuse any of the things he has allegedly done, but it doesn’t stop us feeling sympathy for him on a human level.
And it’s also important to understand the impact he’s had don’t he Australian TV audience. Yesterday a fan gave AOK a big hug as he was leaving court.
O’Keefe seemed shocked but ended up enjoying the moment.
Sometimes, we all just need a hug.
Please indulge me…
I just wanted to take a moment to plug a few things I’m doing at the moment.
This week I am hosting 4BC AFTERNOONS, filling in for Sofie Formica. The feedback has been lovely and I’ve really loved the opportunity.
From next week I will be back to doing the entertainment report on Tuesday and Thursday at 2.45pm Qld time.
And you can also hear me every Friday night talking TV on 2GB/4BC on Nights with John Stanley just after 9pm NSW time.
If you have a tip, e-mail me at [email protected] or DM me on twitter @rob_mcknight
