Richard Wilkins
Richard Wilkins’ Career in Australian Television and Entertainment
Richard Wilkins is one of Australia’s most recognisable television presenters and entertainment reporters, best known for his long-standing work with the Nine Network. His career spans music television, entertainment reporting, live event hosting, radio broadcasting and international red carpet coverage.
He first gained national attention as the original host of the Australian edition of MTV when it aired on the Nine Network. In 1992, he also hosted the game show Keynotes, which served as a summer replacement for Sale of the Century.
In 1999, Wilkins hosted the Australian version of Entertainment Tonight, further establishing his reputation as a leading entertainment reporter.
Sydney New Year’s Eve and Major Live Events
For almost a decade, Richard Wilkins became the familiar face of the Sydney New Year’s Eve television broadcast, hosting the iconic annual event for the Nine Network. His involvement helped shape the broadcast into one of Australia’s most-watched live television celebrations.
He also regularly appears on Today, where he files daily entertainment reports and interviews major international and Australian celebrities.
Oscars, Golden Globes and Red Carpet Coverage
Richard Wilkins is widely known for his international entertainment reporting, particularly his coverage of major Hollywood events. He presents Nine Network’s coverage of the Academy Awards and regularly reports from the Oscars and Golden Globes red carpets.
His interviews with global film stars and musicians have made him one of Australia’s most established entertainment correspondents.
Theatre Work and Grease: The Arena Spectacular
In 2006, Richard Wilkins returned to the stage in a new creative role, earning praise for his performance as Vince Fontaine in the large-scale production Grease: The Arena Spectacular.
The production showcased his versatility beyond television presenting and highlighted his ability to perform in live theatrical environments.
Recognition and Milestones at Nine Network
On 16 April 2007, the Nine Network’s Today program honoured Richard Wilkins for his 20 years of service. A special segment featuring highlights from his career was broadcast, recognising his long-standing contribution to Australian television.
In July 2007, he also presented at the Australian leg of the global Live Earth concert series, further demonstrating his involvement in major live entertainment events.
On-Air Reporting and Media Moments
In June 2009, while reporting live on the deaths of Farrah Fawcett and Michael Jackson, Richard Wilkins mistakenly reported the death of actor Jeff Goldblum during a segment on Today. The claim was later corrected on-air and confirmed as a hoax, an incident that attracted widespread attention and was later referenced in popular media.
Despite this, Wilkins continued to maintain a strong and respected presence in Australian entertainment journalism.
Book Release and Writing Career
In September 2011, Richard Wilkins released his autobiography Black Ties, Red Carpets, Green Rooms. The book became a bestseller by December of the same year, reaching number one status and offering insight into his career in entertainment journalism and celebrity reporting.
Radio Career with smoothfm
In May 2012, Richard Wilkins expanded into radio broadcasting, joining smoothfm. He currently hosts weekend mornings from 10am to 12pm on smoothfm 91.5 in Melbourne and smoothfm 95.3 in Sydney.
His radio work further strengthened his connection with Australian audiences across multiple media platforms.
Richard Wilkins’ 25-Year Milestone in Television
In 2012, Richard Wilkins celebrated 25 years in television, marking a major milestone in his broadcasting career. His longevity and consistency in entertainment journalism have made him one of Australia’s most enduring media personalities.
Richard Wilkins’ Legacy in Australian Entertainment Media
With decades of experience across television, radio and live entertainment, Richard Wilkins has become a defining figure in Australian entertainment journalism. From MTV and Entertainment Tonight to Oscars coverage and Today, his career continues to influence entertainment reporting in Australia.
