Channel Nine's breakfast program, 'Today,' has experienced a notable decline in ratings following the temporary return of Samantha Armytage as a host. The show has struggled to attract viewers, with competitor 'Sunrise' on Channel Seven widening its audience gap.
Over the past month, 'Sunrise' has averaged 438,000 national viewers, while 'Today' has secured an average of 304,000. On some days, 'Sunrise' has reportedly exceeded 'Today' by over 200,000 viewers. This comes as 'Today' continues to navigate leadership changes after Karl Stefanovic's departure earlier in the year. With regular co-host Sarah Abo on maternity leave, Armytage and Tom Steinfort have been filling in, but viewership has not rebounded as anticipated.
Adding to recent challenges, Armytage, 49, recently took time off from her guest hosting duties after fracturing her ankle while taking out the garbage. She described tearing ligaments and sustaining a bone fracture from missing a step.
Meanwhile, Armytage's television future has also seen developments with the reported third scheduling delay of 'The Golden Bachelor Australia.' The dating series, initially slated for release later this year, is now expected to premiere in March of the following year. While production insiders suggest the delay is part of a strategic plan to position the show in a more competitive viewing period, industry speculation suggests it may be linked to Armytage's potential return to a permanent role on the 'Today' show.
Sources indicate that network executives may be hesitant to have Armytage simultaneously host a daily breakfast program and a prime-time reality show, particularly during the critical early stages of a new breakfast television commitment. The postponement of 'The Golden Bachelor Australia' until March would potentially alleviate this scheduling conflict if Armytage secures a long-term position on 'Today.'
