Prime poised to pounce

Broadcaster Paul Holmes is feeling the weight of expectation as Prime prepares for a major assault against rival networks.

As the much-anticipated debut of his new current affairs show on television network Prime looms, he says he is well aware it is more than just his fate on the line.

The success of the fledgling network itself, which today launches its slick new look and line-up, is also, to an extent, at stake.

It is a thought that has kept Holmes awake more than once in the past few months.

"I feel a huge responsibility. A lot of people have committed a lot of resources to turn this network around. It can be quite scary when it wakes you up in the middle of the night."

The veteran radio and television host must not be the only one out at Prime's growing Albany headquarters with midnight jitters.

The network, looking to pull back its $66 million loss, has invested huge money into an aggressive advertising campaign to announce its coming of age.

To this end, programme manager Andrew Shaw has put together a line-up which includes shows like quirky award-winning drama Deadwood, the top-rating Wife Swap series, free-to-air cricket, league and a new series of Dr Who.

The network has also picked up new series of shows that have previously aired in obscure slots on other channels, such as Reno 911 and King of Queens.

With a formidable broadcasting background and reputation, Paul Holmes, the man and the show, was the main local event in the fight for ratings, Shaw said.

But he did not expect one man to carry the network's fortunes.

"We can't rely on Paul Holmes to build this channel. That's too much responsibility for one man. I've got to do something for my cheque."

Getting the programmes and publicity is one thing, ensuring New Zealanders can actually get the channel is another - Prime broadcasts on the UHF frequency.

Prime chief executive Chris Taylor downplayed the issue, saying more than 80 per cent of households could receive the station.

Despite the high expectations on his shoulders, Holmes said not to expect miracles straight away.

They would have moments on the show they would look back on and rather forget, he said.

Not that he has seen anything in the competition - TV One's rebranded Close Up At Seven has been running for more than a month and TV3 is currently working on its 7pm current affairs show with John Campbell - that troubles him yet.

"Having said that, I respect them. They are not mugs. But neither are we."

But make no mistake. Holmes and his team, which includes his former TVNZ producer Pip Keane and TV One presenter Alison Mau, know what they want and they will make it work.

"Am I determined? Yes. Have I ever been so determined? Probably not," he said.

GIVEAWAY

Prime Television, through the Herald on Sunday, is giving away 10 of the UHF aerials needed to tune in to the network.

The free-to-air television station is offering not only the aerials, but full installation and tuning so you can watch its 2005 line-up, which includes the Paul Holmes show, Golden Globe-winning Deadwood and free-to-air cricket, rugby league and PGA golf.

To enter, send your name, address and telephone number to: Tune In To Prime, Herald on Sunday, PO Box 3290, Auckland.

The 10 winners will be drawn on Wednesday.

- HERALD ON SUNDAY