Channel 10 has surprised fans by sacking several major stars, including fan favourite Kerri-Anne Kennerley.
Natarsha Belling and weatherman Tim Bailey were also a part of the cuts, with at least 20 jobs being cut.
Staff have been informed that the news and operations department is being “restructured” due to the sharp decline in advertising revenue.
According to Mumbrella, current affairs program The Project is not affected by the cuts and the changes in staff lineup are expected to be effective by Monday, September 14th.
Despite losing Kennerley and Belling, Studio 10 will continue to air on weekdays from 8 am to midday, with Sarah Harris and Angela Bishop staying. Denis Drysdale and Denise Scott will continue on as contributors, with Joe Hildebrand understood to be “in talks” with the network about his future on the show.
The network has advised that more changes will be announced regarding Studio 10 in coming weeks.
“The decision to make these changes was a very difficult one and I want to express my sincere thanks and gratitude to our friends and colleagues who will leave the network,” Channel 10’s network director of news content, Ross Dagan, said in a statement.
“It is in no way a reflection of their talent, contribution or passion. They are exceptionally gifted people. We are incredibly proud of them and their work. There is no doubt they will be missed.
“These painful changes reflect the state of the media industry in recent years and the need for all media companies to achieve new efficiencies.
“While our viewers in Brisbane, Adelaide and Perth will see some on-air changes, we will continue to produce local news and employ local reporters, camera operators and production staff in those cities.”
Beverley McGarvey, Channel 10’s chief content officer, added: “These decisions are not being made lightly, however, they are essential to future-proofing our business.”
