It Takes Two (2006–2008)

Not at all my type of show, and the reality format wasn't helped by the series being screened on a commercial channel (unlike it's BBC counterpart) but, as a David Hobson supporter, I stuck with it through all ten nerve-wracking episodes.

For the most part the competing couples ranged from the totally awful (who were the first to be voted off) to the increasingly competent, as the weeks passed and the more talented (or appealing) duos survived to the next round. But, from the very first night, for a few magical minutes the show was transformed into something truly entertaining when celebrity Erika Heynatz and her Mentor, leading opera tenor David Hobson, took the floor. They had to overcome a few obstacles, including early otherwise fine performances from Erika marred by her obvious nerves; Hobson's lack of previous experience as a voice coach (also his having to spend the last six weeks of the series commuting between Sydney and Melbourne, due to opera rehearsals); and even Hobson appearing on crutches one night, following a sporting mishap!

However, they received the most Judges votes (leading throughout the series) and against all odds and the strong voting from fan-bases of some other competitors, made it through to the Grand Final when, to the delight of their much-increased band of supporters, they won the competition!

Although I was obviously pleased by the hoped-for but unlikely outcome, I was also relieved when the series ended, as I hadn't enjoyed it at all. However, since a sufficient number of viewers obviously did, it seems that a second series of It Takes Two is planned for next year.