ANDREW STARTIN
Born in Benalla Victoria, where indeed he still resides, Andrew grew up with the institution called AFL Football. For his entire life he has watched and listened as various media personalities went about their daily trade of keeping the football mad public informed of what was going on in their world of sport.
Consequently it wasn’t long before Andrew commenced mimicking those he worshipped for so long. Amusing his friends and team mates at the local Football Club just wasn’t enough.
After dropping out of a Journalism course at Deakin Uni, he got his first big break in 1997 when he submitted a home-made videotape to the national Channel 9 “Footy Show” hosted by Eddie McGuire. Eddie had called for viewers to submit evidence of how well or otherwise they could imitate co host Sam Newman. Encouraged by his mates, Andrew sent the tape in and the rest became history as viewers immediately loved the way he went about his impersonations.
Not only was Sam Newman lampooned, but Bruce McAvaney, Denis Cometti, Leigh Matthews, Mike Sheahan all came under the hammer from Andrew. Extremely quick witted, Andrew’s impressions instantly make an audience gasp at his ability to mimic not only the voice, but also the mannerisms and expressions of his target. Andrew brings to life the colour, vibrance and attitudes of those he impersonates, creating very funny, high impact “personal appearances’ of some of Australia’s most loved and hated media personalities. A show or just an appearance will have the audience talking about Andrew with colleagues and friends for years to come.
Recognising his talent, rival network Channel 7 contracted Andrew to appear on the ill fated “Live and Kicking” show. Leaving the network who discovered him was much publicised, but in time Andrew returned to Nine where he remains today.
It is little wonder Andrew has become very popular as a live performer and is in high demand for events.
Watch the audience gasp and laugh at Sam Newman or Rex Hunt in all their colour and passion. Be impressed with the knowledge and “wit” of Bruce McAvaney and laugh at the “Comettisms”.
THE BOY FROM THE BUSH MAKES GOOD