Andrew Startin shot to prominence in 1997 with his incredible impersonation of Sam Newman. The unemployed 19 year old from Benalla became an instant hit with his uncanny take off of the much publicized Footy Show identity.
Appearing 5 more times that year on the show, Andrew embarked on what would become a more than interesting path in the TV industry.
In January of 1998, a bidding war for his services with Channel 9's The Footy Show, and Channel 7's newly formed alternative, Live and Kicking took place . Andrew jumped across to Channel 7 on a two year deal under the guidance of former Footy Show Executive Producer, Harvey Silver.
However, Live and Kicking was axed after its two year run, and Andrew was left to concentrate on his speaking engagements for corporate groups and sportsman’s nights. In 2000 and 2001, Andrew spent his time honing his craft to develop a routine that would be keenly sought after.
By 2003, Andrew entertained crowds at just over 70 functions, word was quickly spreading about his new characters that moved out of the footballing scene and into the cricket, with Richie Benaud, Tony Grieg and even Sir Don Bradman his latest victims.
The famous Working Dog Productions of The Panel and The Castle fame, hired Andrew's services for Glenn Robbins "Russel Coight Celebrity Challenge" telemovie in 2004, which ultimately led to 3 guest appearances on The Panel throughout the year. He also spoke at over 100 functions for the year. 2005 was just as busy for the man of many voices, applying his trade at no less than 117 functions.
With the occasional appearance on The Footy Show, an amazing 9 years after it all began when he got his break with his Sam Newman impersonation, there is no sign of him slowing up.
Whether he is attacking the umpires as Sam Newman, justifying his coaching ability as Gary Ayres, rating his own top 50 as Mike Sheahan, or mesmerizing you with statistical brilliance as Bruce McAvaney, there is no doubt Andrew will leave you in stitches with his impersonations of our country’s media personalities.! |
