From broadcasting provocateur to political candidate, the polarizing career of Paul Henry
In short: Paul Henry is a New Zealand broadcaster whose career is defined by high-profile media roles and a consistent trail of controversy. From his start at the BBC to hosting major morning shows and reality television, Henry has repeatedly sparked public outrage, leading to resignations, suspensions, and a recent pivot into active politics.
Born in 1960, Paul Henry began his broadcasting journey in the mail room and as a studio assistant at the BBC. His early career included working as a producer on New Zealand's National Radio and managing his own station, Today FM, in the early 1990s. By the 2000s, he had become a prominent television personality, co-hosting TV One's Breakfast and later leading simulcast shows on TV3 and Radio Live. His professional trajectory also included a brief, turbulent stint in Australia, where he hosted Network Ten's morning show in 2012 before its cancellation due to low ratings.
Henry's career is marked by frequent clashes with public standards. In 2010, he resigned from Television New Zealand following widespread condemnation for ridiculing the name of Indian politician Sheila Dikshit and questioning whether the Governor-General, Sir Anand Satyanand, was a true New Zealander. His time in Australia saw further controversy, including disparaging remarks about asylum seekers that drew significant backlash. Despite these incidents, Henry maintained a loyal following, with his autobiographies and vintages of Central Otago Pinot Noir achieving commercial success.
Beyond media, Henry has engaged in political life, first running for the National Party in 1999. In 2026, he announced his candidacy for the ACT Party in the New Zealand general election. His political transition has been accompanied by characteristic friction; in July 2026, he faced criticism for suggesting he would shoot Labour Party leader Chris Hipkins during a radio interview game. While supporters often frame his style as a challenge to political correctness, critics frequently accuse him of pandering to the lowest common denominator, ensuring his presence remains a polarizing force in New Zealand public life.
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- Summary by Intellect · source: Paul Henry (broadcaster)
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