TV role fires up Lee

The Sunday Times (Perth) - February 8, 2004

Cricket star Brett Lee will host his own television lifestyle program on Foxtel later this year.

"It's my next adventure," Lee, 27, said. "I've always wanted to do something on TV.

"The opportunity to present my own show is amazing and I look forward to immersing myself in all aspects of television production."

Lee has secretly signed a deal to spearhead the pay-TV network's sports marketing and promotion campaign.

"I was pretty chuffed to be chosen," he said. "It's awesome. I don't look at myself as a celeb - just a bloke who plays cricket. It's going to be weird at first."

Lee, who returned to form against India last month, said he would balance his international career with television work.

"I'm very focused on my cricket but I'm not making too many big calls or looking too far ahead," he said.

Lee, who has worked in a menswear store since he was 17, now has his own clothing label as well as an amateur rock career.

The paceman with the movie-star looks will host a new (yet-to-be-finalised) lifestyle program on Foxtel's FOX8 channel.

Foxtel's director of television, Brian Walsh, said: "His vibrant personality, high profile and trademark good looks ensure he has the essential qualities to generate viewer interest."

- PHILLIP KOCH