The Footy Show solid and safe, writes Colin Vickery
CHANNEL 9 advertised the return of The Footy Show as “a new era in entertainment”. But what it delivered was an old era in entertainment, writes Colin Vickery.
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CHANNEL 9 advertised the return of The Footy Show as “a new era in entertainment” but what it delivered was an old era in entertainment.
That is because watching the revamped version of Nine’s sports entertainment program was like jumping in a time machine.
Eddie McGuire, flanked by Sam Newman, had more silver in his hair than when he last hosted 12 years ago. Dave Hughes provided laughs instead of Trevor Marmalade. Rebecca Maddern was on board — but in most other ways this felt like going back to the future.
The Braveheart-inspired opening credits gave way to More Than a Game performed by Chris Doheny and McGuire’s catchphrase of “what a big week it has been in footy”.
There was a new set which featured a single desk for seven including players Shane Mumford, Max Gawn and Andrew McGrath, and a couch area off to the side.
The first part of the show was basically a gab-fest as McGuire led a discussion on tackling rules and the AFL’s Match Review Panel.
It took 25 minutes to unleash its first bit of comedy with a funny footy-based send-up of Gogglebox featuring players including Josh Gibson, Tom Lynch and Jeremy Howe.
That was followed by Newman quizzing Richmond coach Damien Hardwick and captain Trent Cotchin about Dustin Martin’s future.
After 40 minutes it was time for the first match — the Cats versus the Tigers — to go under the microscope and an interview with injured Joel Selwood.
McGuire had wanted to resurrect Hughes’ Before The Game segment Tool of the Week but had to settle for clone Back to the Twos.
Rumours of a move to an In Melbourne Tonight-style variety proved unfounded. This wasn’t all-singing, all-dancing.
Instead, The Footy Show was almost too serious. Newman was surprisingly restrained. No letting off the leash. Not a pair of fishnet stockings in sight.
This was a relaunch that felt back-to-basics. It was a solid first effort but more than a little safe.
I’m glad McGuire is back at the helm.
Now everyone needs to loosen up and have some fun.
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