M-Net's head of local content, Helen Smit, says the time is right for a high-profile male celebrity-driven talk show with a local tone. "You can rest assured that The Gareth Cliff Show will ruffle some feathers and spark interesting debates around a variety of topics. Whether you love him or hate him, you have to admit that Gareth Cliff has his own take on the world. Brace yourself for a show that will be a blend of controversial topics with an infusion of wit and humour."
Each week he will choose a topic about which he has a strong opinion - from current controversies to issues in day-to-day South African lives. Three panel guests will challenge or match his views and a lively three-way interaction between him, the guests and the studio audience will ensue.
To test the content and likeability of the programme, M-Net commissioned a pilot episode of show, which went through intensive market research. "Talk shows are traditionally a difficult genre to crack, as the host plays a vital part. We were thrilled with the overwhelmingly positive feedback we received," says Smit.
Imani Media is producing the show and television veteran, Bobby Heaney is directing. When asked what he is looking forward to the most about having his own show on this new platform, Cliff says, "I'm excited about starting a conversation and engaging with a variety of different people. Talking about stuff that matters, that is topical, interesting and thought-provoking."
Follow him on Twitter at @GarethCliff.
