Gary Burchett Sky Sport leadership and broadcasting approach, Digi Mart USA News (New Zealand): Gary Burchett, the head of Sky TV’s sports operation, says he cannot stand agreeable television. The Australian executive works closely with on-air talent, including former players moving from the sports field into the studio.
Burchett says he wants commentators to share opinions, argue points and show personality, within reason. He says audiences should come away with useful information they can pass on, and that broadcasters must accept that not everyone will like them.
He draws a line at personal attacks. “I don’t want shredded reputations.
I don’t need nastiness,” he said, adding that strong opinions should be well researched, accurate and fair. He stresses editorial independence, saying broadcasting rights do not buy public relations.
Burchett also discussed the return of Ian Smith to Sky’s cricket commentary team, a role Smith left at the end of 2022. He described Smith as one of the most respected cricket voices in the world and said he had spoken to Sky TV chief executive Sophie Moloney before bringing him back.
The article also covers Burchett’s career path, which began in Australia and included roles at Fox Sports Australia and Star India. He later moved with his family to Costa Rica before taking up the Sky role in New Zealand.
Burchett addressed Sky’s recent broadcast error during Jai Arrow’s 100th NRL appearance for South Sydney, when the broadcaster cut to an advertisement at a poignant moment. He apologized the following day, saying Sky had got it “badly wrong.”
On competition, Burchett said he wished TVNZ were more competitive in sports broadcasting, and said Sky and TVNZ are understood to be vying for A-League rights from the next season. He said Sky must remain fiscally responsible, but would be reluctant to give up a sport and team such as Auckland FC.
