The revival of the iconic ’90s lifestyle show, Healthy, Wealthy & Wise, has stirred significant discussion about the evolving landscape of commercial free-to-air television in 2025. Hosted by Chrissie Swan, the reboot reflects a stark departure from the original, which aired from 1992 to 1998 and was a cornerstone of light entertainment in Australia.
Originally, Healthy, Wealthy & Wise was celebrated for its diverse content that included renovation tips, gardening advice, financial guidance, and cooking segments. It thrived during a peak era of “infotainment,” captivating audiences during its prime-time slot. The show elevated several hosts, such as celebrity chef Iain Hewitson and craft expert Tonia Todman, to household name status, largely due to its impressive production values and engaging format.
The 2025 reboot, while sharing the same title, presents considerable changes. Unlike the original, which was shot on location across various scenic backdrops, the new version is primarily studio-based, suggesting an emphasis on cost-effectiveness. This shift raises immediate questions about the production quality and viewer engagement. Instead of the vibrant visuals that characterized its predecessor, the new format relies heavily on a talk-show set-up, where Swan interacts with guests and co-hosts, including comedian Ash Wicks.
The show’s current structure prioritizes product placement, evident in segments that promote sponsors rather than focusing on quality content. For instance, segments featuring personal makeovers led by Chyka Keebaugh and home renovation tips by Aimee Stanton double as advertisements for various brands. This trend aligns with a growing pattern in television, where commercial interests increasingly dictate programming decisions.
Segments are presented at a breakneck speed, reflecting the producers’ concern over viewer attention spans. Tips on vehicle purchases and financial advice are delivered in rapid succession, often with presenters racing against a timer. While this format may cater to a fast-paced audience, it undermines the depth and value of the content, potentially leading to viewer dissatisfaction.
The show’s reliance on “canned applause” and the presence of a “box of death” segment—where guests choose between holding a snake or spider while answering questions—further highlights the drastic shift in tone. Such gimmicks, as noted by comedian Dave Thornton, evoke a sense of superficiality that deviates from the meaningful content that once defined the original series.
As Healthy, Wealthy & Wise airs on Seven at 19:00 on Saturdays, it becomes increasingly clear that the revival is less about upholding the legacy of its predecessor and more about navigating the financial realities of modern television. The approach taken by the show mirrors broader industry trends, where entertainment value often takes a backseat to commercial viability.
In a landscape where local dramas are falling out of favor, light-entertainment shows like Healthy, Wealthy & Wise are being reimagined primarily as vehicles for sponsorship, raising concerns about the future of quality programming on free-to-air networks. The 2025 reboot serves as a case study in how the television industry is evolving, often at the expense of meaningful content.
