TV legend Tony Barber ‘I'M READY TO HOST AGAIN!'

The Sale Of The Century legend would love to regain his coveted game show crown

- Craig Bennett

Tony Barber has no regrets about quitting his dream job as host of Sale Of The Century 30 years ago, but the energetic star says he’d jump at the chance to return as a TV quiz show compere.

“Hell yes, I’d be back in a flash! I loved hosting Sale. The show was exciting, which is why I did it with such a genuine smile for 11 years,” says the affable Gold Logie winner.

“Am I too old to host another game show? Gosh no! I might be 81, but I’m certainly not out. In America, they won’t let you host a game show until you’ve got one foot in the grave. It’s all about being an authority figure.”

In fact, Tony reckons his many years of experience would make him a perfect candidate for fronting a new prime-time show. “I’m feeling fit and fabulous - sure, the voice is a little croakier, but the mind is nimble and the memory terrific. And let’s face it, 80 is the new 40.”

“As a game show host, you need to be able to talk under wet cement and create a connection with the contestants. And I certainly tick the authority box with my silver hair and copious game show miles on the clock,” he laughs.

TV ROYALTY

The TV legend has a resume that would be the envy of any host. “All up I estimate I’ve hosted more than 8500 hours of TV game shows, which also includes Name That Tune, Family Feud, Wheel Of Fortune and Jeopardy,” says British-born Tony, who worked on Perth radio before finding fame as the “Cambridge whistler” on a ’60s cigarette commercial.