Watch out, Carrie! Channel 10 ‘is considering Melissa Leong for The Project’ after impressing network brass with her presenting skills
MasterChef judge Melissa Leong could soon be making regular appearances on Channel 10’s nightly current affairs show The Project, if rumours are to be believed.
Melissa is a rising star at the network, popular with both viewers and management, and senior executives now want her to take on additional roles, reports New Idea.
The food critic, 39, who only joined Channel 10 last year, is said to have ‘thoroughly impressed bigwigs’ with her style, presenting skills and ‘impressive public profile’.
‘Negotiations’: MasterChef judge Melissa Leong could soon be making regular appearances on Channel 10’s nightly current affairs show The Project, if rumours are to be believed
She is reportedly in ‘quiet negotiations’ to join The Project as a recurring panellist, but there is no suggestion she is replacing any of the regular hosts.
The Project is one of 10’s most high-profile shows.
Despite not rating as well as news bulletins or current affairs programs on other networks, it punches above its weight in terms of media coverage.
Likable: Melissa is a rising star at the network, popular with both viewers and management, and senior executives now want her to take on additional roles, reports New Idea
Stories originating on The Project can set the news agenda for months, and the hosts often make headlines for their news commentary.
Melissa, who is known for her progressive views, would be a perfect fit for the panel, which features the likes of Waleed Aly, Carrie Bickmore and Lisa Wilkinson.
MasterChef viewers will also be familiar with her sharp wit, which would allow her to effortlessly play off comedians Tommy Little and Peter Helliar.
Daily Mail Australia has contacted Channel 10 and Melissa Leong’s reps for comment.
Alignment: Melissa, who is known for her progressive views, would be a perfect fit for the panel, which features the likes of Waleed Aly (left), Carrie Bickmore (right) and Lisa Wilkinson
Melissa joined MasterChef last year alongside fellow judges Andy Allen and Jock Zonfrillo, replacing original trio Gary Mehigan, George Calombaris and Matt Preston.
The 2020 season, MasterChef: Back to Win, was a ratings smash, regularly drawing more than a million viewers per night.
However, this year’s season has been less impressive, prompting Channel 10 to commission a celebrity special for 2022.
Ms Popular! The food critic, 39, who only joined Channel 10 last year, is said to have ‘thoroughly impressed bigwigs’ with her style, presenting skills and ‘impressive public profile’