In Australian TV news, Charlie Pickering is quitting his co-hosting job on Channel 10’s popular show, The Project. The move comes as a surprise, as co-host Dave Hughes only left his seat on the panel a few months ago. Many fans will miss the popular host, but Pickering has announced that he will be leaving the co-hosting role to pursue opportunities in stand-up comedy.
Charlie Pickering will not be replaced, instead, Carrie Bickmore and Dave Hughes’ replacement Peter Helliar will be given expanded roles on the show, with more reliance on rotating panellists such as Andrew Rochford, Steve Price, and Todd Sampson.
Fans won’t have much longer to enjoy Pickering’s presence on The Project – his last episode will air on Monday, April 7th. Charlie Pickering was a foundation member of unique news, chat and comedy show, having worked on the show since its start, almost five years and 1,200 episodes ago.
Carrie Bickmore tweeted ‘It’s not gonna be the same without you by my side buddy @charliepick. But I am so happy for you. @theprojecttv #congrats #yourock’
Pickering is expecting a child with his wife Sarah later this year, and says that they will use this opportunity to travel before the baby arrives.
‘The Project has been an incredible ride,’ says Pickering. ‘I have been able to interview everyone from prime ministers and astrophysicists to my comedy heroes like Will Ferrell, John Cleese, Clive James and Billy Connolly.’
‘I will miss working with Carrie Bickmore, Pete Helliar and all of our regulars. I will miss having my hair maintained by a team of professionals.’
Image Credit: Channel 10
