Report: Rove moves into The Project chair

If reports today that Rove McManus is to become the permanent co-host for The Project with pals Carrie Bickmore and Peter Helliar are true, then it should be a ratings boost for TEN.

When McManus guest-hosted in May ratings rose noticeably, above 700,000 viewers.

“If there is one thing that can guarantee to bring me home it is the idea of getting the band back together with Pete and Carrie,” he said at the time.

McManus returning home follows the axing of comedy show Riot in the US, but the chemistry between the three will be good for the show.

The Project, a product of his own company Roving Enterprises, is produced by his longtime business partner Craig Campbell.

News Corp reports he is expected to begin his new role midway through next month as the permanent replacement to Charlie Pickering, who departed in April.

But it notes Matt Doran, who has been one of several guest hosts was left “gutted” when told of the decision. With recent cuts to TEN News it has been a role that has fitted the loyal Doran well.

Other guests hosts have included Matt White, Ray Martin, Wil Anderson, Kate Langbroek and regulars Waleed Aly and Andrew Rochford.

Campbell previously told TV Tonight Pickering would not be immediately replaced until a natural candidate presented themselves.

Update: TEN confirms guest host until December.

“It was fantastic being back doing live TV with Carrie and Pete in May and I couldn’t resist the opportunity to return and co-host again for a few months. Plus I think I left my phone charger in the dressing room,” McManus said. 

“It will be great to be able to be part of The Project for the remainder of 2014 as member of the regular team. Everyone involved does such a tremendous job putting the show together and even better for me, I’m essentially working with friends every day.”