AUSTRALIAN MEDIA:

An icon of Australian television has lashed out at industry decision-makers following news that the Seven Network has secured the rights to telecast the TV Week Logie Awards from next year.

The deal will see the Nine Network lose the broadcast rights to annual awards ceremony after hosting the event for the past 27 years.

But the decision has angered industry veteran and the “face” of the awards since their inception in 1959, Logie Statuette.

At a news conference this morning at an inner-Sydney hotel a clearly tired and emotional Mr Statuette attacked the deal that will see the awards ceremony swap networks. (below)

“This is bullshit,” he told a roomful of entertainment reporters from a range of media outlets.

“Can’t you freebie loving, vacuous, freeloading, star-fuckers see what’s going on here?

“The awards that have carried my proud family name for more than six decades and at which I’ve been appearing for the same time are meant to be an industry-wide event.

“No matter which TV network hosts them, the awards have never before favoured one network over another.

“But it’s crystal clear to me that the Seven Network is just going to use this sacred event to promote itself and its shows and so-called stars.

“I mean take a look at the new ‘slightly modified’ award statuette Seven says will be presented from next year’s event onwards. (main picture)

“Does it look familiar? I’ll give you a hint about Seven’s motives – I’ve been advised from an impeccable source that they plan to gradually begin dropping the use of my family name and start using ‘the Kochie Awards’.

“So come June next year Seven wants everyone to be talking about the Kochies not the Logies.

“My life is over…..” Mr Statuette began before his voice trailed off, and he dropped the glass of Scotch and ice he was holding and slid sideways onto the floor where he remained face down and snoring as reporters left the room to be greeted by Seven Network staffers handing out gift bags.