Nine tests new faces as Today enters a pivotal transition
Channel Nine is reportedly ramping up its search for a new permanent co-host for Today, with experienced broadcasters Samantha Armytage and Sylvia Jeffreys set to audition on-air in the coming weeks.
According to industry insiders, the pair will rotate through the co-host chair while the network evaluates potential combinations for the struggling breakfast program. The trial period is expected to coincide with Sarah Abo’s upcoming maternity leave, giving executives an opportunity to assess different presenting partnerships before making any long-term decisions.
The search follows the departure of longtime host Karl Stefanovic, leaving one of Australian television’s highest-profile breakfast programs at a major crossroads.
Network considers broader shake-up across the Today team
The overhaul is believed to extend beyond the co-host position.
Sources suggest veteran Newcastle NBN newsreader Jane Goldsmith has emerged as a leading candidate to take over the program’s newsreading duties as Nine reviews its broader on-air lineup.
While the network reportedly has several experienced female presenters under consideration, finding a permanent male replacement for Stefanovic is said to be proving considerably more challenging.
Ratings pressure continues to mount
The casting process comes at a difficult time for Today, which has continued to trail Channel Seven’s rival breakfast program, Sunrise, in the ratings.
Industry observers believe Nine is using the current transition period not only to replace key talent but also to refresh the show’s overall chemistry in an effort to regain viewers.
Karl Stefanovic’s departure reshapes Nine’s broader plans
The impact of Stefanovic’s exit has extended beyond Today.
Nine has quietly removed The Long Weekend, the radio program Stefanovic co-hosted with Eddie McGuire, from its streaming platforms 9Now and Stan. The show, originally planned as a multi-platform offering, is now reportedly available only through Gold FM.
Only the June 26 episode remains accessible on Nine’s services, featuring McGuire addressing Stefanovic’s absence after the presenter’s controversial interview with British far-right activist Tommy Robinson.
Stefanovic appeared in just two episodes before leaving the project.
Eddie McGuire continues the show without Stefanovic
McGuire has since continued hosting The Long Weekend on his own, joined by newsreader Georgia Love and anchor Toni Tenaglia.
Speaking on the program last week, McGuire publicly acknowledged his former co-host’s departure and wished him well.
“As extensively reported this week, my co-host and friend Karl Stefanovic will no longer be part of The Long Weekend as he dedicates the next phase of his amazingly successful career,” McGuire said.
He added that while their partnership was brief, he hoped Stefanovic’s media career would continue to thrive.
Contract reportedly ended early
According to reports, Nine decided to end its relationship with Stefanovic last month, bringing an early end to a contract believed to be worth around AU$200,000 for the remainder of the year.
The move marked another setback for the veteran broadcaster following his departure from both Today and Channel Nine, with the network now focused on rebuilding one of its flagship television brands.
