It won't be a quiet Christmas for the powers that be at TV3, who are scrambling to prepare for Paul Henry's new multi-platform breakfast show next year.
Speculation is rife about who is joining Henry on the breakfast sofa, and Spy hears the hot favourite is gorgeous 3rd Degree hostSam Hayes.
TV3 confirmed Henry won't be flying solo. "There will be people on screen with Henry. We will be announcing the show's format in the New Year," said MediaWorks' Rachel Lorimer.
Insiders tell Spy that Hayes, 30, is widely tipped as the "female future" of the network and is heir apparent to Hilary Barry in the coveted 6pm news-reading slot. We're told Hayes needs more experience - and what better way of getting that than trying to wrangle the lively Henry!
When Spy asked Hayes if she was making the shift, she dodged the question, pointing out she was "currently in the Antarctic sleeping in a polar tent in the Dry Valleys" for an upcoming 3rd Degree story.
Spy also picks Henry's buddy and late-night reporter Rebecca Wright will make the shift to mornings. But as for how many other staff will be shuffled, and the fate of stars such as RadioLive Breakfast host Marcus Lush, MediaWorks isn't saying.
The Paul Henry Show will be simulcast on television, radio and online, and is reportedly the brainchild of new boss Mark Weldon.
