He's more used to taking down politicians in no-holds-barred interviews, but Chris Uhlmann has shown his good humour while discussing his two-week stint co-hosting the Channel Nine breakfast show Today, joking he has been "the Karl you have when you are not having ratings".
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Uhlmann filled in for the usual host Karl Stefanovic for two weeks, finishing up on Friday before heading off for a break over Christmas.
The former 7.30 political editor, AM presenter, 666 ABC Canberra host and reporter at The Canberra Times started his new gig as Nine's political editor in October, taking over from the retiring Laurie Oakes.
He showed his range by filling in for the holidaying Stefanovic on Today, in a move no doubt designed to introduce him to more Nine viewers.
Some commentators had a dig at Uhlmann switching from hard-hitting reviews of US President Donald Trump's performance in his previous role with the ABC to doing segments on Christmas food and holiday TV binge-watching with Today.
But Uhlmann took it all in his stride.
"It's been a great experience," he told The Canberra Times.
"I don't claim to have the range and talent of the usual host because I am the Karl you have when you are not having ratings. But I am up for a challenge and it is always good to try something new and broaden your pallet.
"Today is very news-focused and Nine has a superb news team.
"It also knows how to do light and shade, doesn't take itself too seriously and, importantly, builds a sense of family and community. Put it all together and it is a compelling and powerful program, which is why it endures.
"And I am in awe of the people who labour in the hours when others sleep to build it and put it to air."
Uhlmann did happily say goodbye to the 3am starts needed for Today. He'll be back in the new year taking on the big political stories of the day for Nine after years as a leading light in the Canberra press gallery with the ABC.
"It has been a big change but everyone at Nine has made me feel very welcome," he said.
"I was attracted to making the change because Nine has a long and proud history of broadcasting world class news and current affairs."
He also got a shout-out on the Today Facebook page on December 13 for celebrating his 20th wedding anniversary with wife Gai Brodtmann, the Member for Canberra.
