Controversial New Zealand television host Paul Henry has already attracted criticism following the early debut of Ten's new Breakfast program.
Henry, a divisive figure in his native land, was lured by Ten to be one of the co-hosts of Ten's gamble into breakfast television alongside Andrew Rochford, Magdalena Roze and Kathryn Robinson.
Initial reaction on Twitter pointed towards Henry's dominance of the show over the other presenters.
@spaulies2cents tweeted: “Paul Henry monopolizes [sic] the convo with his cringe-worthy opinions, rudely talks over & cuts off the other presenters #TenBreakfast #Fail”.
Other critical responses to Henry include @eddieperfect who tweeted: “I have mixed feelings re. Paul Henry. Shouldn't we be protecting out local arsehole industry from cheap imports?”
Another tweet said: “I don't want to judge a show too quickly. But I saw 2 seconds of Paul Henry on 10's Breakfast and it looked godawful sh*t”
Some Twitter users lamented his absence on New Zealand television and expressed envy of Australian viewers.
Breakfast debuted days earlier than its original launch date (27 February) to capitalise on the political drama unfolding between Prime Minister Julia Gillard and Kevin Rudd. Henry guest-spotted on Ten's The Project last night to announce the show would go to air this morning, cutting short the rehearsals process.
In a statement from Ten, Henry said: “This is a hugely exciting evening. We are not launching Breakfast in Monday. Ten are launching Breakfast tomorrow morning at 6am. How good is that!”
The show was extended until 10am to cover Gillard's press conference and featured Gillard and Rudd impersonators engaged in a mock debate.
Other reactions on Twitter include @molkstvtalk's tweet: “Enjoying #TenBreakfast so far. Interview with Bruce Hawker pretty good (1st i/view for show), host finding groove. Competitive product.”
Another tweet from @jellyflaw read: “Checked out @TenBreakfast. They've got a guy from CentreBet talking about politics. CLASSY. That's all the reason I need not to watch again.”
Henry was known in New Zealand for various antics including a controversial incident where he mocked Indian diplomat Sheila Dikshit for her name, which resulted in his resignation from TVNZ.
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