fbpx

David Farrier leaves MediaWorks

Another current affairs personality has departed from MediaWorks, with David Farrier confirming via Twitter today that he will be leaving Newsworthy.

 

In contrast to last year’s high profile departure of John Campbell and axing of 3D, the departure of Farrier was not an executive decision but rather a case of him deciding to leave the network of his own volition to focus on other projects. 

“I’ll be working on getting Tickled out there, this documentary I’ve been working on for the last two years,” he said in an official statement. “I’m starting with Sundance next week, so packing lots of very warm clothes. I am mainly hoping to get Robert Redford’s signature for my mum.”

Farrier’s documentary delves into the world of competitive endurance tickling, and he previously told Stuff it was “definitely the strangest” story he had ever worked on.

In his time at MediaWorks, Farrier has been critical of some decisions made at the media company, particularly in regard to the launch of Scout.

     

However, he is yet to express any animosity since announcing his departure and his official statement (admittedly signed off by MediaWorks) was largely positive. 

“I’ve had a tremendous time with my colleagues on Newsworthy last year, I just feel so lucky to have worked with such talented friends. My personal highlights were kicking things off with Neil Finn in the studio, and wrapping last year up with comedians Tim & Eric, who are personal heroes of mine.”

Newsworthy will now be fronted independently by Samantha Hayes, who has until now co-hosted the show with Farrier.

The potential longevity of the show is however questionable, given that its ratings weren’t great last year, with Nielsen data giving the show an average audience of only 66,900 between June and October (StopPress has also requested the data for November and December).    

MediaWorks will no doubt be hoping to improve these ratings as the show continues this year. 

About Author

Comments are closed.