‘Indian-hate-slur’ host Henry’s departure doesn’t see drop in TVNZ viewership

WELLINGTON - Despite the departure of the controversial and popular host Paul Henry from the Television New Zealand, the ratings of the breakfast show reportedly remains high, but experts claim that the actual effect of his absence would be known only after a few months.

According to the New Zealand Herald, Henry’s departure has divided that country, with some refusing to watch the show without him while others saying that they are happy that he is gone.

TVNZ has admitted that his resignation might have attracted some viewers who refused to watch the show while he was hosting it, but added that this twist could also be because of the channel’s Commonwealth Games coverage.

A faculty at Christchurch Polytechnic Institute of Technology’s Broadcasting School, said it was too soon to know the effect of Henry’s resignation.

“I think you need to look at least over a month, preferably three months. Ratings are important because of the trend that they might reveal, so you need to see what the trend is and obviously that has to be taken over time. You’ll get the best indication if you look at the period three months before and three months afterwards,” he added.

Henry’s ‘racist’ comments against Delhi Chief Minister Sheila Dikshit had made international headlines last week, which ultimately resulted in his resignation.

Pressure had been mounting on Henry to resign since the time he insulted the Indian-origin Governor-General in the country, Sir Anand Satyanand, during an interview with Key on Breakfast earlier. (ANI)