ABC content boss Courtney Gibson quits for programme maker Southern Star
The ABC boss whose deputy took the fall for The Chaser’s controversial Make A Realistic Wish sketch is quitting the broadcaster to work for the TV production giant behind the likes of Deal Or No Deal and Big Brother.
Courtney Gibson, ABC TV’s executive head of content creation, will become director of programmes at Southern Star Entertainment after leaving the ABC in October.
Gibson came under the spotlight after the Chaser row when it was revealed that although Amanda Duthie, the ABC’s then head of arts, entertainment and comedy took responsibility, Gibson had also received the tape of the controversial Chaser sketch although she did not watch it.
Gibson’s new job comes at a time when the TV production sector is set to become increasingly comeptitive with Elisabeth Murdoch’s Shine due to launch shortly and Fremantle Media on the up following the success of Masterchef for Ten.
Kim Dalton, director of ABC TV, said “Courtney has made a significant contribution to Australian content output during her time here. Courtney has that rare ability – she has a real eye for talent and loves to take a risk. She has an insatiable appetite for hard work and lives for television. I know she will continue to make a great contribution to Australia television in her new position and we wish her well.”
Gibson said “After more than 10 years commissioning programs for our public broadcasters, it’s time to cross back over to the other side of the equation to be a maker of shows and content, for a variety of networks and audiences.”
Southern Star is owned by Endemol which owns international franchises such as Big Brother, Deal Or No Deal and Wipeout. Locally Southern Star’s shows include Rescue Special Ops, Love My Way, Rush and Hi5.
Tim Burrowes founded Mumbrella in 2008. He worked on Mumbrella until 2021. At various points he was editor, content director and editor-at-large.
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So, combining the day’s stories, Courtney Gibson will be producing a new political satire cum music contest starring Kyle Sandilands…?
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