Gordon Smart joins STV’s What’s On Scotland

It’s a smart move for STV’s entertainment output…

STV has announced that award-winning journalist and broadcaster Gordon Smart is set to join Laura Boyd as co-host of the weekly entertainment series What’s On Scotland while regular host Emma Cameron is on maternity leave.

Gordon Smart:

“It’s a joy to help out while Emma takes some time away with her beautiful wee baby on maternity leave. I’ve always loved watching her and Laura interviewing big names for What’s On Scotland – they have a great chemistry and warmth on STV – so it’ll be surreal being the one sitting alongside Laura with an invitation into living rooms around Scotland on a Friday night! Being in Laura’s orbit is always amazing fun, and I’m so pleased she’s giving me her showbiz blessing to join the show.”

The hit Friday night staple returns for a new series on Friday 9 February at 7 pm, and while Emma’s away, Gordon will keep her seat warm alongside Laura. Hosting an entertainment magazine show that features interviews with some of the biggest names in showbiz is a natural fit for Gordon, who made his name as the youngest editor of The Sun’s Bizarre column and was later appointed Editor of The Scottish Sun, then Deputy Editor of the national edition.

Gordon Smart steps in to co-host STV’s What’s On Scotland alongside Laura Boyd

Laura Boyd:

“It’s lovely to see Emma outside of work for cuppas and cuddles with her gorgeous new baby, but while she’s off on maternity leave, who better to keep her seat warm than Gordon Smart? He has a cheeky charm and celebrity black book like no other! We always have a good laugh together and I can’t wait to bring that to the screen.”

In recent years, Gordon has become a familiar figure on TV and radio, presenting Good Morning Britain on STV/ITV, BBC One’s Morning Live, and hosting his own show five nights a week on BBC Radio 5 Live. He also co-hosts weekly podcast Restless Natives alongside actor and long-time friend, Martin Compston.

Gordon’s years on the showbiz circuit and Laura’s career as an entertainment reporter for STV has meant their paths have crossed many times – but this will be the first time the pair have presented together.

Main image: Gordon on the What’s On Scotland set, Inset: 2021 hosting Good Morning Britain

What’s On Scotland shines the spotlight on the best films and TV shows to watch each week, as well as the hottest gigs, shows and festivals taking place across the country. Gordon and Laura will be joined on the show by big-name guests including Peter Capaldi, Rick Astley, Lorraine Kelly, Tom Walker and Hue and Cry in the coming weeks.

Bobby Hain, Managing Director of Broadcast at STV:

“Gordon is one of the best-connected broadcasters in the country, and his natural warmth and charisma bring the best out of whichever big star is sitting in front of him. He’s a fantastic addition to the What’s On Scotland team and we’re delighted to have him looking after the show with Laura while Emma is away.”

What’s On Scotland returns to STV and STV Player on Friday 9 February at 7pm.

Laura Boyd returns to co-host What’s On Scotland