Ron Briffa says no feud with Ricky Caruana despite post hinting at frustration
Xow host said: 'Sorry I didn't wear a silver suit'
Ron Briffa, host of Xow, has dismissed talk of a feud with podcaster Ricky Caruana, despite a Facebook post hinting at frustration over losing his coveted Friday night prime-time slot.
Caruana's new programme will air in Briffa's place immediately after the 8pm news on TVM, a slot considered the jewel of Maltese television, prized by producers and advertisers alike.
In an apparent reference to Caruana, Briffa said on Wednesday afternoon:
“I’m sorry if I didn’t wear a silver suit during the programme, if I didn’t go along with fashion. I’m sorry if I was presenting with Jacqui Losco and not with a pig… because that’s how they get their views.”
Technicolour blazers are a trademark for Caruana, and the popular podcaster recently posted an AI-generated image of himself shirtless except for a blazer, alongside a pig.
However, when contacted for comment, Briffa said the post was intended to set the tone for his upcoming programme, which will take a sharper satirical edge compared to Xow.
He said he holds no ill will towards Ricky Caruana or TVM.
“On the contrary, I’m excited for the concept of late-night black comedy and satire,” Briffa said.
The new programme, FIXFIXOW will be live on air on Fridays at 10.15pm, after Caruana’s programme.
He said he has gathered a “strong new creative team” to bring the show to life. Briffa said the show will include a mix of established names and fresh talent.
In a post, Caruana congratulated Briffa for the programme: “Rest assured that there are no bad intentions from my side or his."
He also addressed critics, saying: “To the rest who are commenting, I have nothing to tell you except that I just happened to be born a philosopher and all I needed was (a pig) and a disco ball (his blazers) to take the hit nationwide. What’s my fault in that? Because I’m good at what I do, and because I’m simple and capable at the same time, now suddenly that’s a sin and something bad?
“It’s not my fault either that my charisma naturally and simply attracts thousands of people. Some love me, some hate me.”
He said he did not need to con anyone to get where he was.
The AI-generated image Caruana posted. Photo: Facebook/ Ricky Caruana podcast