Friday night marked the end of an era as Network 10’s The Project aired its final episode.
Waleed Aly, along with his co-hosts and some surprise guests, delivered a tearful send-off to the 16-year-old show.
A Legacy of Bold Storytelling
The Project was more than just a news program – it straddled the world of news, pop culture, and comedy.
Aly paid tribute to the “audacious TV experiment” started by creative visionaries who dared to be different. “Could you create a world where Will Ferrell can interview the Prime Minister?
It’s not the done thing,” he said, highlighting the show’s willingness to push boundaries.
A Champion of Marginalized Communities
Aly also praised The Project’s commitment to giving a voice to marginalized communities. “Could you do a prime-time commercial news show that hooked its audience by playing with them instead of scaring them?
That didn’t trade on demonizing groups of people who have no platform to respond? Not the done thing. Well, we done the thing.”
He proudly declared, “This show reflected the best of this country.”
Celebrity Farewells and Tributes
Australian and international celebrities sent in heartfelt farewell messages, including G Flip, Robert Irwin, Jess Mauboy, Andy Lee, Pete Murray, Dannii Minogue, Katy Perry, Guy Sebastian, and Shane Jacobson.
Prominent broadcaster Lisa Wilkinson, who hosted the show for four years, also paid tribute, highlighting The Project’s impact on exposing toxic workplace culture in Parliament House.
A Legacy of Impactful Journalism
Hamish Macdonald, a long-serving reporter, pushed back against critics, citing the show’s gritty reporting on important issues.
“I see stories of Australians that maybe weren’t always shown on television, that were really important. Really meant things.”
He mentioned the ongoing saga of refugee Ali Yasmin, highlighting The Project’s dedication to telling important stories.
Final Words from the Hosts
The Project’s longest-serving host, Carrie Bickmore, was close to tears as she thanked everyone she had worked with over the years.
Comedic regular Tommy Little expressed his gratitude, saying he was humbled to have had the opportunity to make people laugh.
Waleed Aly delivered a final farewell, celebrating the show’s audacity and creativity.
The final episode marked the 4504th edition of The Project, a testament to its enduring legacy in Australian television.