Programme
Live From Studio Five
Owner
Five
What has happened?
Series has launched
Unfortunately, Live From Studio Five does not live up to the hype. Presenter-led shows rely heavily on the chemistry between the people sitting on the sofa (witness the uproar when Fern Britton left This Morning). That chemistry - or lack
of it - is the first of many things that lets this show down.
Kate Walsh (the blonde one from this year's Apprentice), Melinda Messenger (the blonde one from the fourth series of Dancing on Ice) and former footballer Ian Wright laugh awkwardly, interrupt each other, shuffle around in their seats, offer unsubstantiated opinions and pull faces at co-presenters (Wright).
The studio is dingy - a dark backdrop with neon lighting - and appears cramped. The interviews are tepid and unrevealing.
Overall, the show is light on content and feels as if it was made on a shoestring. It's not serious enough to tackle weighty editorial issues (in the first episode, the subject of Elton John's proposed child adoption was handled poorly) and yet doesn't offer a new perspective in the entertainment and juicy gossip stakes either. In the first show, guest Katie Price was given a 10-minute three-on-one interview and there were no exclusives.
Of course, the show is only a few episodes into its first series - the chemistry and content issues can be fixed and Five could have a real gem in this slot - controversial, gutsy and interesting with a wide appeal.
As it stands, however, Live From Studio Five is treading a very awkward middle ground and, as a result, it's hard to see who it would appeal to.
What's good?
Although they seem to lack confidence in their new seats, the presenters have potential.
What could be better?
The presenter chemistry and the set design.
Would I book my clients onto this?
Not currently, although it's one to watch.
Rhiannon Murphy, Head of TV, The7Stars