“I’m incredibly grateful”: Peter Helliar farewells The Project
A bucket of custard was aptly gifted to Peter Helliar as he wrapped nearly 9 years on The Project and over 20 with Network 10.
- Published by David Knox
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Peter Helliar bid The Project farewell last night ending nearly 9 years on the show.
He thanked Waleed Aly, producers, network execs, and family.
“To the team who ploughed through news footage to find clips for me to show, you all had to watch way too much SKY News for that. I am forever in your debt,” he said.
“Lastly, to you, the audience, thank you for embracing my silliness, understanding my intentions and accepting my limitations. When I look through this lens of camera 4 I do actually believe I’m looking at you and I’m seeing you, so thanks for coming along for the ride. I inherited this chair for my great mate Dave Hughes, and they were big shoes to fill. So thank you for accepting me wearing a tie and a suit. I agree that the tie was a stupid idea for a long time.
“Now it’s time for somebody else to inherit this chair and I encourage you to get behind them, Sarah Harris will of course Waleed next year and onwards. The TV landscape is not as colorful without The Project in it.”
His departure follows from recent exits by Carrie Bickmore and Lisa Wilkinson.
.@pjhelliar has signed off from The Project desk for the last time. Here's how he said goodbye after eight years on the show.#TheProjectTV pic.twitter.com/ZhtiuI2NR4
— The Project (@theprojecttv) December 7, 2022
It was also Helliar’s departure from 10 after more than 20 years including on  Rove Live, Before the Game, SkitHouse, Cram! and three seasons of his own concept, How to Stay Married.
He added, “I look forward to playing trust games with the showbiz gods. Until then, I’m pretty sure I’ll see you round. Thank you. I’m incredibly grateful.”
Instead of a bouquet of flowers, Waleed Aly presented him with a bucket of custard …a nod to a former running gag.
After eight years on The Project desk together, Waleed has some final words for Pete. He also presents Pete with a bucket of custard to say goodbye!#TheProjectTV pic.twitter.com/ezRnFGOySB
— The Project (@theprojecttv) December 7, 2022
3 Responses
All the best for the future Pete.. Your humour and and genuine care for others was a standout of your time on The Project.
Figures the Cash Cow is now at 10…it’s the only way the network can make $10,000 a day.
Sad that Pete is leaving, but good luck to him with whatever he does next.