Network 10 is the third of the commercial free-to-air broadcasters to hold its 2022 Upfront event. (It’s not the end of the Upfront season though. Still to come will be what’s ahead for Foxtel, SBS and the ABC channels.)
Like the Nine and Seven Upfronts this year, the Network 10 event is also a virtual presentation only.
Unlike both Nine and Seven, the Network 10 channels and its streaming service are part of a global media giant. Expect to hear more about how ViacomCBS is impacting the business in the way it supercharges the content offering.
How much will 10 share about what’s new and what’s axed? Will the sport offering continue to grow, and will news be a focus in 2022?
Let’s find out…
12:32pm
Australian Survivor host Jonathan LaPaglia introduction as he promises six network executives and also appearances from 30 network talent.
Next up was EVP and chief operating and commercial officer Jarrod Villani with a welcome about how business has gone through significant transformation over past 24 months.
Jarrod Villani
Network 10’s chief sales officer then got one of the most memorable introductions on any Australian network Upfront. And that is saying something after Rod Prosser’s Carpool Karaoke turn with host James Corden two years ago.
“He’s lots more than just a sales guy,” was one of the celebrity endorsements.
“Rodney Hastings Prosser,” said Waleed Aly as he was joined by the rest of the team from The Project.
There are apparently plans also for ViacomCBS to explore the possibility of a Rod Prosser doll as part of a merchandise range!
When Prosser finally arrived he said: “At least I didn’t have to sing this year.”
Rod Prosser
Prosser explained how involved ViacomCBS in social justice issues in Australia. He also noted that 10 has four of the top 10 biggest entertainment shows for younger viewers.
“We are also the youngest network,” said Prosser.
He also revealed 10 sales initiatives around e-commerce and a sales offer called “Happy Hour” which lets a brand take control of a timeslot.
10 is churning through the network executives. In quick succession Lisa Squillace (national sales director) and then Liz Baldwin (head of streaming) detail some of the successes and 2022 offers from their departments.
Lisa Squillace
Liz Baldwin
A Paramount+ reel promotes Spreadsheet. Other new Australian Originals on the streaming service will be Couples Therapy and Last King of the Cross. Plus 6 Festivals and the unscripted The Bridge.
Head of programming Daniel Monaghan continues the discussion about Paramount+ with The First Lady. “The American White House meets The Crown.”
He goes into more detail on the eight original scripted and unscripted Australian Originals.
Daniel Monaghan
Another programming reel details the programming highlights on Network 10 in 2022. From MasterChef to The Project to The Masked Singer and many more.
“We have well established favourites plus noisy newcomers,” said Monaghan.
Spruiking I’m a Celebrity…Get Me Out of Here! are hosts Dr Chris Brown and Julia Morris. No clues yet about contestants, but a reminder from them it kicks off January 3.
Another reel features the MasterChef Australia judges Andy, Melissa, and Jock promoting the new season, Foodies v Favourites. The series will feature the first MasterChef winner from 13 seasons ago, Julie Goodwin.
MasterChef judges
The Project hosts talk about how they are hoping for a better 2022 for everyone. Returning host Hamish Macdonald said he is glad to be back where he belongs.
Monaghan then introduced reels for Hunted, 16 fugitives on the run, and First Dates Australia, noting 10 is the best place for the format. (It used to be on Seven.)
He then promotes Would I Lie To You? with clips from the UK version.
Some 40 minutes in we get to meet Beverley McGarvey, executive vice president and chief content officer for ViacomCBS Australia and New Zealand.
Her first announcement is that 10 has secured the rights to the FA Cup and to explain it further she introduces new 10 football commentators Tara Rushton, Bruce Djite, and Simon Hill.
This is followed by a 10 football reel.
Tara Rushton, Bruce Djite, and Simon Hill
What follows is a reel promoting the diversity of 10’s sport portfolio including Melbourne Cup and Formula 1.
McGarvey returns to remind how good a partner 10 and its various platforms can be for brands.
The 10 Upfront winds up with a reminder to watch the launch of The Bachelorette tonight featuring “Australia’s sweetheart” Brooke Blurton.
The one more reel with highlights from all programs and platforms.
(Over)