Weeks after sacking him as Footy Show host, Channel 9 is set to extend Paul ‘Fatty’ Vautin’s contract

WHAT’S THE BUZZ: Just a few weeks after sacking him as Footy Show host, Channel 9 is now talking about extending Paul ‘Fatty’ Vautin’s contract.

The Footy Show is set for a revamp — but Fatty could still have a future. Picture: Gregg Porteous

JUST a few weeks after sacking him as Footy Show host, Channel 9 is now talking about extending Paul ‘Fatty’ Vautin’s contract at the network.

Nine’s director of sport Tom Malone has told The Sunday Telegraph he hopes the veteran TV personality will stick around longer than the one year left on his
current contract.

“We love Fatty,” Malone said, “The Footy Show was a budget decision. We had to halve it.

“It had nothing to do with personalities.

“I rate Fatty very highly as a commentator and I’d like to think we could talk about an extension when the timing’s right. He’s still got a lot to offer the network.”

Nine executives appreciate the manner in which Vautin has publicly dealt with his axing.

“Nothing lasts forever,” he said, “I had a great run.”

WHAT’S THE BUZZ: Saint, sinner, shoosh

The Footy Show is set for a revamp — but Fatty could still have a future. Picture: Gregg Porteous

This is so different to the Vautin of old.

If you can recall the days when he split from his beloved Manly Sea Eagles way back in 1989, you’ll know what I’m talking about.

We were close mates in those days. It was one of the ugliest and most spiteful splits in the game’s history.

This time, Fatty has handled it with dignity and class.

Meanwhile, Malone and network consultant Gary Burns are planning a new version of the Footy Show next year for Monday and Thursday nights.

The mail is Erin Molan will host Thursday nights after the live games and James Bracey to host a panel show and weekend review on Monday nights.