Byram lands prime US job
Ireland's Amanda Byram has landed a job as a prime time TV presenter in the US, it was announced today.
Byram – who dated comic Patrick Kielty for more than four years - beat stars such as Ulrika Jonsson, Tess Daly and Lisa Snowdon to the role.
She is to present the Fox network’s prime time summer show Paradise Hotel twice a week from June 18.
Byram joins figures such as Anne Robinson and Simon Cowell who have headed to the US as relative unknowns, although crucially they went with tried and tested shows.
Reality game show Paradise Hotel, made by UK firm Mentorn, is Fox’s replacement for huge ratings hits American Idol and Joe Millionaire.
Byram joked: “This is a dream come true – I always wanted to live in LA and become the Karate Kid’s girlfriend.”
Fox executive Mike Darnell said: “Amanda Byram is a terrific talent. Although she’s currently unknown to American audiences, she’s been a big hit in the UK.
“We believe that viewers of Paradise Hotel will love getting to know her.”
She was axed from the Big Breakfast last year when Channel 4 pulled the plug.
Byram previously worked on TV3's Ireland AM and has since reported for Sky One.
In Paradise Hotel, 11 guests live together pampered in a swanky resort. When guests are voted out, they are replaced by viewers who win the right to appear in the show.
