When he leaves Project Peter Helliar also departs Network 10
Signed to Roving Enterprises, Peter Helliar will no longer be 10 network talent after The Project.
- Published by David Knox
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When Peter Helliar wraps with The Project in two week’s time, he will also farewell 10 after a 22 year run of shows.
But the network hopes to work with him again.
A 10 spokesperson confirmed Helliar is contracted to Roving Enterprises for The Project, meaning he will no longer be part of the network stable. This is the same for Carrie Bickmore, whom 10 also would like to work with in the future… presuming they are not snaffled up by a rival network.
Helliar announced his resignation this week to give himself space to focus on other projects, pardon the pun. Bickmore has also indicated she does not plan to leave television.
Helliar’s list of credits at 10 includes Rove Live, Before the Game, SkitHouse, the short-lived Cram! and three seasons of his own concept, How to Stay Married. He has also been a regular on shows including Have You Been Paying Attention? which would likely continue via Working Dog.
Beverley McGarvey, Executive Vice President and Chief Content Officer, Paramount ANZ said, “One of the most loved and respected comedians in the country, Pete joined The Project in 2014 filling the comedy seat, a seat which he has held for the past eight years. Given the breadth of his work, it is amazing that we have been lucky enough to have him sit at The Project desk four days a week.
“Pete has made the decision to take more time to dedicate to his first loves – writing and stand-up – and we look forward to our continuing relationship.”
His final Project is Wednesday, December 7.
8 Responses
I have wondered if there’d ever be more How to Stay Married made; I guess not.
I have long wondered why The Project has lasted as long as it has, given its relatively abysmal ratings. It seems to be a protected species because of the long-term relationship between Ten and Rove McManus.
Wonder if all these people leaving The Project have been pushed. They all seem to only work 3-4 days a week and receive a huge pay. No wonder the have got Sarah as she will work 5 days. My guess is that due to bad ratings they were told a revamp is needed, probably offered them a reduced salary and a chance to leave gracefully or to be let go. as a big fan of the show I am looking forward to the revamp.
Does this mean that 10 is taking over the production from Roving Enterprises. Like they did with the Living Room?
No.
The Project will be different next year. Is Before the Game meant to be mentioned twice?
How do networks decide who gets employed to the network vs who gets employed via the shows production company?
Network contracts are pretty rare these days, most talent are show to show. I suspect Lisa Wilkinson is on network contract, but Carrie could probably field new offers so she is sitting in a good position. Tracy Grimshaw is probably getting a retainer to stay at Nine.