The Nine Network today announced that Ben Fordham and Andrew “Freddie” Flintoff are joining the adrenaline-charged competition series Australian Ninja Warrior, ahead of its debut season in 2017.

In a coup for the internationally acclaimed Ninja Warrior format, Fordham joins the heart-pounding sport and entertainment series as a commentator and co-host alongside Rebecca Maddern.

A Walkley Award-winning journalist, Fordham is enjoying a prolific media career. Widely known for his time on the Today show and Today Extra, he now hosts the top-rating afternoon radio program on 2GB.

“I don’t know what to expect but that’s the exciting part. Ninja Warrior is one of the biggest shows ever produced in Australia, so I’m looking forward to being part of it. My godsons are nuts for the show and threatened to disown me if I said no to the opportunity to be involved,” he said.

“I can’t wait to join Bec and Freddie and see the outstanding athletes who are taking on the challenge of Australian Ninja Warrior.”

Joining Fordham as 250 Aussie athletes line up to tackle the world’s toughest assault course will be presenter, broadcaster and cricketing legend Andrew “Freddie” Flintoff. He will be the sideline reporter, getting up close to the competitors as they try to tame the gruelling obstacle course on Ninja Island. 

After an outstanding cricket career, playing in the England team that won back the Ashes and captaining his country, Flintoff moved into the media, where his cheeky sense of humour and outgoing personality has seen him go from strength to strength.

“I’m so happy to be coming to Australia to be a part of Australian Ninja Warrior. I’m a fan of the UK version and having seen what is planned for the Australian series, I know this is going to be massive. There are incredible athletes running the course and I can’t wait to see how they get on,” Flintoff said.

Nine’s Head of Content, Production and Development, Adrian Swift, is delighted to have two more big names joining Australian Ninja Warrior.

“With Ben and Freddie joining the team alongside Bec there’s a great sense of anticipation here at Nine for this dynamic show. We feel confident that ANW will allow inspiring Australian athletes to test their abilities on the world’s toughest obstacle course and provide captivating television for our audiences,” Swift said.

“Ben is someone we know well at Nine, he’s part of the family. And we welcome Freddie, who we have met over the years through his involvement with English cricket.”

Production on Australian Ninja Warrior commences in December and the program will premiere on Nine in the second half of 2017.

Monday, November 28, 2016

For further information please contact: 

Ryley McKay

Nine Network Publicity

T: 02 9965 2727 M: 0413 378 052 E: rmckay@nine.com.au