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Ben Elton to host live comedy variety show for Nine

Comedian Ben Elton is to produce, write and host a live variety show in a major coup for the Nine Network.

Live From Planet Earth takes the British-born comedian, who has since relocated to Australia, back to his comedy roots. During the 1980s, Elton compered the breakthough alternative comedy series Saturday Live in the UK. He also wrote comedy series including The Young Ones and Blackadder.

Live From Planet Earth will be produced by Fremantle Media Australia which announced a partnership with the WA-based Elton earlier this year.  

Nine described the show as “100 per cent comedy and 100 per cent live. It is a studio-based variety program hosted by Elton with a cast of regular sketch performers, plus guests, comedians, comedy music acts and international stars. Elton will also be delivering his world-renowned stand-up routines and his influence will be felt throughout the program as he revels in the producing, writing and performing roles.”

He said: “It’s the ultimate great night out, but we bring it to you. Just smart, high-energy live entertainment with plenty of attitude. The audience, the performers and our guests will all play a crucial role in the fun which.”

Nine’s director of programming Michael Healy said: “Ben Elton is an extraordinary talent and Nine is delighted to have him join the network. Live From Planet Earth will be part of a dynamic lineup on Nine next year.”

Frmantle Media CEO Ian Hogg said: ““Simply put, Ben is a world-class creative force. This show will be fantastic. This commission is a credit to our creative director, Jason Stephens, and his development team for their work with Ben on creating Live From Planet Earth. It feels great to be delivering such a fresh and unique comedy program to the Australian audience.”

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