New Wizard Ready To Cast His Spell

Bert Newton shows stage magic
November 09, 2008 12:00am

TV LEGEND Bert Newton will again tread the boards as the Wizard of Oz when he joins the cast of Wicked this week.

Newton will make his debut in the stage show on Thursday night. He replaces Rob Guest, who died last month after a stroke.

Co-producer John Frost is expected to make the official announcement on Tuesday. It will see Newton reprise the role he played on stage 17 years ago in the stage production of The Wizard of Oz. Wicked has grossed $25 million since opening in July and is expected to play for at least the next 12 months.

The move also means Newton will take the stage at this year's Vision Australia's Carols by Candlelight with the entire cast of Wicked.

They will be joined at the Christmas Eve event by David Campbell, Hi-5, Marina Prior, Ian Stenlake and Anthony Callea. Georgie Parker and Tim Campbell will make their Carols debut, while Today Show hosts Karl Stefanovic and Lisa Wilkinson will host the night.

Bert Newton The New Wizard

Moonface Bert Newton dances into Rob Guest role in Wicked

November 03, 2008

MOONFACE Bert Newton has stepped in to play the Wizard in Wicked after the sudden death of star Rob Guest.

While producers have refused to confirm the 20 to 1 host, his co-star Rob Mills said the cast were excited to work alongside the industry veteran.

Newton was a good friend of Guest, who passed away suddenly last month following a massive stroke.

Mills said Newton was coping well with the physical role. "From what I hear he's doing really well with the dancing," the former Idol singer said.