Close Up executive producer tipped to leave show - denied by TVNZ
Insiders say the show had been in trouble for some time.
Contrary to media reports that TVNZ Close Up executive producer Mike Valentine is on a month's holiday, NBR has been told he may have been stood down and is unlikely to return to the flagship show.
TVNZ insiders said the show had been in trouble for some time with the loss of several senior staff, including producer Louisa Cleave, who is understood to be finishing up with the programme this week.
Calls to TVNZ were not returned at time of publication and Mr Valentine could not be contacted for comment.
TVNZ spin doctor Megan Richards called NBR after publication saying, "the whole story is wrong. I'm saying it's extremely defamatory. He's on holiday and his leave arrangements are his own business.
"He has most emphatically not been stood down and there is no suggestion he won't be returning to the show."
Asked if there were any employment issues related to personal grievances, Ms Richards said "we never talk about staff relationships. We follow best practice.
"Your story is wrong and it must come down."
Mr Valentine's partner is Caroline Meng-Yee, the controversial tabloid reporter who recently left the Herald on Sunday.
Ms Meng-Yee drew criticism after attending a costume party dressed as murder victim Sophie Elliott, whose family she had interviewed for the paper.
NBR staff
Sat, 09 Apr 2011
Sat, 09 Apr 2011
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Close Up executive producer tipped to leave show - denied by TVNZ
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