Herbs' Toni Fonoti becomes first person to drop F word on The Project NZ

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After 597 episodes, it's a member of the Herbs and Stevie Wonder who drops the f bomb live on Three.

Herbs' founding member Toni Fonoti has become the first person to drop the F bomb on The Project NZ's live show.

Both Fonoti and director Tearepa Kahi were part of the Thursday panel for the Three show, as they talked about the release of the reggae legends' new doco Herbs: Songs of Freedom.

Recounting a tale of how he stalked Stevie Wonder in the toilets in their first ever gig at Western Springs in 1981, Fonoti stunned the studio audience as he revealed Wonder's reaction to their meeting.

Tony Fonoti was telling the audience about the time he met Stevie Wonder - and he didn't hold back.
THREE
Tony Fonoti was telling the audience about the time he met Stevie Wonder - and he didn't hold back.

"When I saw him go to the toilet, and the security guard backed off, I knew it was time to stalk - no regrets," Fonoti said.

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After the F bomb, Jesse Mulligan said it was a first for the show - after 597 episodes of live TV.
THREE
After the F bomb, Jesse Mulligan said it was a first for the show - after 597 episodes of live TV.

"I went in, and he got a fright, he heard my voice and I said 'Stevie I really love what you're doing', and he screamed first.

"And then he said 'F... off,'" Fonoti said to an audible gasp from Project co-host Kanoa Lloyd.

Fonoti looked stunned as he realised what he'd said live on TV.
THREE
Fonoti looked stunned as he realised what he'd said live on TV.

As the live studio audience realised what Fonoti had done, there was a groan and Jesse Mulligan intervened, as Fonoti appeared crestfallen and stunned.

"Well that is a first for the Project - show number 597 everyone," he said to cheering and laughing.

The interview carried on with Lloyd talking about Bastion Point and drawing parallels with what's going on currently at Ihumātao.

At the end of the show, co-host Justine Smith poked fun at what had happened.

"Well, after our Herbs interview I'm just texting the BSA to see if we've still got a show tomorrow night," she said.

 

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