Channel Seven is reportedly preparing a significant play for Sarah Abo, co-host of Nine's "Today" show, as the network navigates a period of considerable change following the abrupt departure of Karl Stefanovic. The move comes as Seven executives are said to be keen to lure the respected journalist back to Melbourne, potentially dealing another blow to Nine's flagship breakfast program.
Abo, who has co-hosted "Today" since January 2023, is currently on maternity leave. According to The Daily Telegraph, Seven views her as a potential long-term successor in its Melbourne newsroom, where veteran newsreader Peter Mitchell is gradually reducing his workload.
Stefanovic resigned from Nine this week after a controversial interview with British far-right activist Tommy Robinson led to mounting speculation about his future. "Today" co-host Sarah Abo emotionally announced Stefanovic's departure on air. While Stefanovic and Nine had initially agreed he would leave the show at the end of the year, the network subsequently decided he would depart immediately following discussions about his role and an independent podcast he hosts.
Stefanovic later shared a video online, stating he was "free" and "truly independent." He thanked his "free to air audience for 21 great years" and urged his co-host Sarah Abo to "look after everyone" on the "Today" show team. He also emphasized the importance of "freedom of speech" in his independent podcast and thanked sponsors who supported his stance.
Seven's reported interest in Abo comes as "Sunrise," Seven's rival breakfast program, continues to outperform "Today" in the ratings. The potential acquisition of Abo, whose contract is set to expire later this year, could intensify the competition in Australia's breakfast television landscape. Industry sources suggest that Seven executives are attracted to Abo's credibility and polished presenting style, believing she would be an ideal addition to their news lineup. However, whether Seven can match Abo's reported annual salary of approximately $800,000 remains unclear, given Nine's recent cost-cutting measures within its news division.