Network 10 has appointed international dance star Tristan MacManus as the new co-host of morning show Studio 10, less than a month after the broadcaster cut into its news department.
The move sees the program return to the traditional two-host format, which rivals Seven and Nine have, after former presenters Kerri-Anne Kennerley and Natarsha Belling were cut from the team as part of a round of redundancies at 10.
As well as the high-profile names, a number of journalists, TV crew and presenters were cut from the department with the presentation of news bulletins centralised out of Sydney and Melbourne.
MacManus, a former Dancing with The Stars judge, starts his new role September 14. Ten says the appointment aims to provide a “feelgood factor and light-hearted distraction” for viewers.
"When searching for the right co-host to join Sarah at the helm of Studio 10 we wanted to think outside the box and choose someone who would help bring plenty of extra sunshine to morning TV at a time when it’s needed most,” says Tamara Simoneau, Studio 10 executive producer.
“He’s charming, funny and fresh with a cheeky Irish side that he’s ready to share with Australia. He might even turn our studio into a dancefloor from time to time and we’re completely ok with that!"
Studio 10 presenter Narelda Jacobs will continue to feature on the program, delivering the latest breaking news, as well as Angela Bishop who will continue to report on entertainment news. Denise Drysdale, Craig Bennett and Jono Coleman will also appear throughout the program.
Long-time host Joe Hildebrand is in discussions with the network about his future with the show.
Prior to the cuts last month, 10 also closed its news platform 10 Daily in May. At the time, the network said it wanted to focus more on its streaming services and social media.
"Tristan has performed all over the world for millions of fans and rubbed shoulders with some of the biggest stars, so we know he can handle four hours of live TV every day,” says Ross Dagan, network director of news content.
“You’ll still get the very latest news, information and entertainment, but in a way that reflects our rapidly changing lives. We all want to know what’s going on in the world, but we also need to escape it from time to time. The outstanding Studio 10 team will strive to strike that balance each and every hour.”
Have something to say on this? Share your views in the comments section below. Or if you have a news story or tip-off, drop us a line at adnews@yaffa.com.au
Sign up to the AdNews newsletter, like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter for breaking stories and campaigns throughout the day.