Well this is both curious timing and a curious outcome. Dicko warmed well in the host’s chair for the inaugural season of Can Of Worms, and for him to remove himself without announcing a replacement immediately poses a few questions… Did he really choose to sack himself? Was he pushed by the network? Will Meshel Laurie get the plum gig as host in 2012? (I hope that last one is true.) At least it’s not some lame Ron Jeremy-esque crossover moment. From the press release:
Ian “Dicko” Dickson said in a statement issued today: “The inaugural series of Can Of Worms was a thrilling experience. We said we wanted to get Australia talking, and we appear to have done just that. What a hoot to be part of a show that encouraged heated family debates about Racism, Euthanasia, Swearing and Boobs!
As my partner in crime Andrew Denton has been keen to point out; I have been exceptionally lucky to join a select number of souls who have been part of creating and then hosting – a successful show on Australian TV. I’m very grateful to Network Ten and in particular David Mott for taking a chance on Can Of Worms and indeed giving us the green light to return next year for season two.
I’ve enjoyed sitting in the host`s seat for series one, but the fact is, I’ve got big plans for Can Of Worms and I think those plans are going to be easier to achieve if we get ourselves a better host. So as one of the shows creators I’m giving myself no alternative but to sack me as host of the show.
I do of course thank myself for the efforts I have made in series one and indeed I wish me all the best in my future endeavours. I also feel certain that in this small but intriguing industry we work in, our paths will surely cross again. Farewell and adieu Silver Fox, It`s been swell, but alas, it has gone down.”
“Can Of Worms” Co-Executive Producer, Andrew Denton from Zapruder’s Other Films said: “Hard to believe that someone as handsome and silver-haired as Dicko wants to step aside as host of his own show but we respect his decision. His original idea, to get Australia talking, has clearly taken seed. Dicko will remain a part of the team and we look forward to working with him, in association with Watercooler Media, on the next series.”
Chief Programming Officer, Network Ten, David Mott said; “There are not many people who knock back the opportunity to host their own show but Dicko has never been predictable and we love him for that. We’re thrilled he’ll still have his hand on the steering wheel for Season 2 and look forward to seeing what Zapruder and Watercooler Media have in store for us for round 2.”
The new host of Can of Worms will be announced early in 2012.