NewsBite

Why Aussie TV powerbrokers stepped down from top job

They oversaw TV hits including MasterChef, Australian Survivor, Big Brother and Married at First Sight. But these TV powerbrokers walked away from the top job. Here’s why.

Mark and Carl Fennessy. Picture: Hollie Adams
Mark and Carl Fennessy. Picture: Hollie Adams

Australian television powerbrokers Mark and Carl Fennessy have stepped down as joint CEOs of Endemol Shine Australia.

After 10 years in the top job, the brothers oversaw massive TV hits including MasterChef, Australian Survivor, Big Brother, Lego Masters, Australian Ninja Warrior, Married At First Sight, Gogglebox Australia, and dramas Offspring, Peter Allen: Not The Boy Next Door, and INXS: Never Tear Us Apart.

They said in a statement on Tuesday: “Ten years ago we commenced a journey with (media executive) Elisabeth Murdoch to inspire, create and shine. The period since has been like one long day filled with rewarding experiences and great success but the time has come for the next adventure.

MasterChef Australia judges Andy Allen, Jock Zonfrillo and Melissa Leong.
MasterChef Australia judges Andy Allen, Jock Zonfrillo and Melissa Leong.


Survivor Australia host Jonathan Lapaglia. Picture: Nigel Wright.
Survivor Australia host Jonathan Lapaglia. Picture: Nigel Wright.
Lego Masters host Hamish Blake and judge Ryan 'Brickman' McNaught. Picture: Channel 9
Lego Masters host Hamish Blake and judge Ryan 'Brickman' McNaught. Picture: Channel 9

“We’re grateful to the broadcasters for their support and we salute our incredible team of talented executives with whom we’ve had the privilege to lead. We look forward to a much-needed break.”

TV expert Colin Vickery said the brothers’ departure from Endemol Shine was a significant move.

“This change feels seismic,” Vickery said. “Mark and Carl Fennessy are two of the most powerful figures in Australian television and have steered some of the industry’s biggest formats to success, starting with MasterChef Australia.

“It is going to be fascinating to see what they do next. You would have to think their knowledge, creativity and talent will be in high demand.”

French company Banijay took over Endemol Shine in July.

Peter Newman has been announced as the new CEO of Endemol Shine Australia.

MORE CONFIDENTIAL

MEGAN BREAKS SILENCE OVER BROTHER’S DEATH

FEV REVEALS WHAT HAPPENED AFTER DRUNKEN BROWNLOWS

nui.tekoha@news.com.au

Add your comment to this story

To join the conversation, please Don't have an account? Register

Join the conversation, you are commenting as Logout

Original URL: https://www.heraldsun.com.au/entertainment/confidential/why-aussie-tv-powerbrokers-stepped-down-from-top-job/news-story/3dca60a54e720f07020c989eb6078617