6pm

George Negus will front TEN’s new 6pm news-based programme in 2011.
His confirmation follows news of his exit from SBS at the end of the year.
Negus, 68, said: “It’s a tough time slot and entrenched viewing habits for a lot of people. I hope the reappearance of my estranged, some would say ugly dial, invading people’s living rooms at that time of night will encourage them to watch, not discourage them.”
The national programme will replace The Simpsons, which moves to Eleven, as part of TEN’s early evening revamp. The network will have 2.5 hrs of news beginning with TEN News at 5pm and ending with The 7PM Project.
ABC journalist Chris Masters has signed as a part-time editorial consultant.
“Chris is a great get. He will add the substance that they’re looking for at the investigative level. There’s no one better in the country to do that.”
The show will seek to give a more in-depth look at news, with panel interviews, longer stories and allow Negus to hit the road.
UPDATED: Joining the show are Hugh Riminton, Max Futcher, Danielle Isdale, Emily Rice and Emma Dallimore, who will remain based in the United States. TEN is yet to title the new programme but it has named its 6:30 offering TEN’s Evening News.
Negus remains with Dateline on SBS until the end of the year.