The Loft Live began in 1997 as RMITV's low budget answer to The Late Show with David Letterman. It was a straightforward talk show hosted by Rove McManus for the first two years (four seasons). The show included a comic monologue from the host, guest stand up comedians, prerecorded skits, guest interviews and live bands. The show had unusually high production values for a community access show which was extraordinary consider the budget was only $50 a week, with a large proportion of that going to the makeup girl, according to Rove. The Loft Live went on to become one of the most popular television series in the history of Australian community television, helping launch the careers of many successful media personalities and professionals such as Rove McManus, Peter Helliar, Adam Richard, Kim Hope, Corinne Grant, Myf Warhurst, Scott Brennan and Ged Wood. Great fun and entertaining to watch.
