ALT TV to be sold

Media sources are reporting that Oliver Driver and his other business partners are looking to sell alternative music channel ALT TV.

Driver and the three other 25 per cent shareholders - founder Thane Kirby, Ricky Newby and former Sky Entertainment corporate boss David Kennedy - are reportedly already in talks with an interested party.

ALT TV began on a weak UHF frequency in Auckland but gained popularity when moving onto the Sky platform. There are also still talks to include ALT TV on Freeview.

ALT TV often gained media interest due to controversial interviews, as well as the introduction of the naked newsreader Lisa Lewis (pictured right).

The group are adamant that there are no financial issues surrounding their departure from the channel, but that they are simply moving on to new ventures.

Founder Thane Kirby is to become programme director at dance radio station George FM.

Oliver Driver is the co-presenter of TV3's morning current affairs show Sunrise.

Alt TV to hold minor parties debate

Alt TV have announced that after being shocked by the mainstream media's decision to cancel the leaders debate, they are holding their own debate for the minor party leaders.

The Alt TV debate will be held tonight at 8pm on SKY Digital 65 and will be presented by Sunrise and Let's Be Frank host Oliver Driver.

Alt TV said in their announcement that their leaders debate will "press minor parties on the real issues of the day (and not the Pepsi Dad and Coke Mum National/Labour coverage the mainstream media are dictating).

ACT leader Rodney Hide, Maori co-leader Pita Sharples, and Green co-leader Russell Norman are just some of the leaders said to be attending.

The Minor Leaders Debate - Wednesday 8pm on ALT TV.