Channel Seven shares final verdict on veteran newsreader amid dramatic news shakeup
By
Seia Ibanez
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In the ever-evolving landscape of television, viewers often develop a strong connection with the faces that bring them their daily news.
So, when changes are afoot, especially involving veteran newsreaders, it can feel like saying goodbye to an old friend.
Channel Seven has recently been at the centre of such changes, with a significant shakeup at 7News that has left many viewers on the edge of their seats.
For months, speculation has swirled about the fate of Mark Ferguson, a familiar and respected figure in Australian news broadcasting.
Amidst what some have called a 'staffing bloodbath' at the network, Ferguson's future was uncertain.
Rumours suggested that he might be replaced by the network's weekend team, Michael Usher and Angela Cox, as insiders hinted at a new direction for the weeknight bulletin.
However, in a turn of events that has surprised many, Channel Seven has delivered its final verdict: Mark Ferguson will remain a key player in the 7News lineup.
In a statement that has relieved his fans, Ferguson expressed his enthusiasm for the new co-anchoring arrangement with Angela Cox.
'I'm really looking forward to it. Ange will add so much extra to the bulletin each night—more experience, more energy, and it will allow us to be much more versatile when that big stories break,' he said.
This decision comes after several high-profile resignations and departures from the network, including senior Seven News reporter Steve Hart, who cited family reasons for his move to WIN News in Wollongong.
Hart's departure is just one of many recent exits from the Brisbane newsroom, following the shock announcement from sports news desk star Shane Webcke that he would be stepping back from his role to focus on family agricultural interests, though he will remain with Seven for NRL insights.
The staffing changes at Channel Seven have been attributed to a broader strategy by the network's recently appointed news and current affairs boss, Anthony De Ceglie.
De Ceglie has been shaking things up, replacing seasoned leaders with younger managers and introducing new segments to the news, including a Friday night comedy spot and astrology.
This has led to the axing of several veteran reporters, including Robert Ovadia and Cameron Baud, who are known for their coverage of Melbourne's crime beat.
The changes have been particularly felt in Sydney, with Ovadia announcing plans to sue Channel Seven for unfair dismissal before the Fair Work Commission.
What do you think of the shakeup at Channel Seven? Do you welcome the new co-anchoring arrangement, or do you long for the days of old? Let us know in the comments below!
So, when changes are afoot, especially involving veteran newsreaders, it can feel like saying goodbye to an old friend.
Channel Seven has recently been at the centre of such changes, with a significant shakeup at 7News that has left many viewers on the edge of their seats.
For months, speculation has swirled about the fate of Mark Ferguson, a familiar and respected figure in Australian news broadcasting.
Amidst what some have called a 'staffing bloodbath' at the network, Ferguson's future was uncertain.
Rumours suggested that he might be replaced by the network's weekend team, Michael Usher and Angela Cox, as insiders hinted at a new direction for the weeknight bulletin.
However, in a turn of events that has surprised many, Channel Seven has delivered its final verdict: Mark Ferguson will remain a key player in the 7News lineup.
In a statement that has relieved his fans, Ferguson expressed his enthusiasm for the new co-anchoring arrangement with Angela Cox.
'I'm really looking forward to it. Ange will add so much extra to the bulletin each night—more experience, more energy, and it will allow us to be much more versatile when that big stories break,' he said.
This decision comes after several high-profile resignations and departures from the network, including senior Seven News reporter Steve Hart, who cited family reasons for his move to WIN News in Wollongong.
Hart's departure is just one of many recent exits from the Brisbane newsroom, following the shock announcement from sports news desk star Shane Webcke that he would be stepping back from his role to focus on family agricultural interests, though he will remain with Seven for NRL insights.
The staffing changes at Channel Seven have been attributed to a broader strategy by the network's recently appointed news and current affairs boss, Anthony De Ceglie.
De Ceglie has been shaking things up, replacing seasoned leaders with younger managers and introducing new segments to the news, including a Friday night comedy spot and astrology.
This has led to the axing of several veteran reporters, including Robert Ovadia and Cameron Baud, who are known for their coverage of Melbourne's crime beat.
The changes have been particularly felt in Sydney, with Ovadia announcing plans to sue Channel Seven for unfair dismissal before the Fair Work Commission.
Key Takeaways
- Mark Ferguson has been confirmed to continue with Channel Seven as a co-anchor for Sydney's 7News alongside Angela Cox.
- There had been earlier speculation about Ferguson's position, with rumours suggesting the network's weekend team might replace him.
- Senior Seven News reporter Steve Hart has decided to leave the Brisbane newsroom for family reasons, moving to WIN News in Wollongong.
- The network has seen a series of staffing changes and departures, with veteran Shane Webcke also stepping back from his sports news desk role to focus on his family business.