Rumours: GTV9, Top Gear… and Seven’s digital?

October 23, 2009  Filed Under News, 16 Comments » 

The rumour mill is in overdrive on three fronts today:

1. GTV9 Melbourne is close to finalising a sale.

2. Nine is set to announce it has successfully nabbed Top Gear from SBS.

3. Seven will unveil its digital channel plans today.

GTV9:
Nine put off its sale of its studio in Bendigo Street, Richmond in June 2008, withdrawing the property from sale following the global credit crunch. But TV Tonight hears it has been back on the market with a deal very close. The heritage-protected building was constructed in 1908 as part of the Wertheim …

Happy 70th Pete Smith!

May 29, 2009  Filed Under News, 8 Comments » 

And how can we not acknowledge the 70th Birthday celebrations of one Mr. Pete Smith, who joined Nine in 1963, and is still entrenched with the network.

Best known for his work on such shows as Sale of the Century (make that “Saaaaaaale of the Century”), In Melbourne Tonight and many years as the voice of Channel Nine (“we apologise for this break in transmission”), Smith is widely known for being one of the nicest, and funniest, in the biz. He has seen it all and is always generous with his time …

GTV9 studios gets Heritage listing

September 9, 2008  Filed Under News, 2 Comments » 

GTV9 Studios were today recognised by the Heritage Council of Victoria for its vast history, including the 50+ years of television that have been produced within its walls.

The original 1908 building, has been home to the Wertheim Piano Factory, Heinz Soups (1935) and Channel Nine (1955). Studio 9 has been used for productions including In Melbourne Tonight, The Don Lane Show, New Faces, Hey Hey its Saturday, Sale of the Century, Who Wants to be a Millionaire, The Footy Show and Temptation.

“This property is very interesting for the way it demonstrates …