Duncan Garner reveals tough times after current affairs show Story is axed by Mediaworks

Duncan Garner has opened up about the axing of current affairs show Story. Photo / Jason Oxenham.

Duncan Garner has opened up about the cancelling of TV3's Story.

Garner co-hosts the show with Heather Du Plessis-Allan, and told the listeners of his Radio Live show that "a lot of people are doing it quite hard".

"There is lots of meetings here today. People's livelihoods are at stake. A lot of people are doing it quite hard," Garner said.

"Jobs come and go, and they change and they evolve ... and if you think television is a gig for life you're a madman. I really appreciate your support today."

Garner said losing the show didn't compare to the "hardest time" of his life when his father died and his relationship with fellow broadcaster Mihingarangi Forbes ended.

He said "I'm sure it will be a-okay".

Garner did not wish to comment when contacted by the Herald.

Staff working on TV3's Story have been told the programme will be dropped by the network at the end of the year.

The show, which replaced Campbell Live last year, has had mediocre ratings success.

It's understood TV3 will launch a new entertainment-focused show, similar to Australia's The Project, in its place - with comedian Guy Williams tipped to be involved.

Last month, Williams announced he was leaving his afternoon radio show at the end of the year, after three years hosting alongside Sharyn Casey and Clint Roberts.

Meanwhile, back at TV3's Flower Street headquarters, sources say senior Australian consultant Andrew Blackwell has been brought in to advise on possible changes. Blackwell is the head of production and programming at Channel Nine Australia.

Mediaworks has yet to respond to requests for comment but earlier today told The Herald it would not comment on reports that the show's future was in jeopardy, labelling them "speculation".

Questions about Story's fate were raised yesterday as news broke that high-profile broadcaster Paul Henry is set to step down from his role at the network. Garner is understood to be in line for Henry's morning news role.