Channel Nine addresses rumours of "tension" on Today set
Channel Nine has addressed rumours of tension and anxiety on the set of Today, with the relationship between hosts Karl Stefanovic and Sarah Abo reportedly being strained.
According to reports to New Idea, Stefanovic and Abo have been at odds over a reported $700,000 pay gap, with Karl reportedly earning $1.5million a year for his hosting duties while Abo brings home $800,000 a year.
Despite the rumours of "tension" over the six-figure pay gap, Nine's director of morning television Steven Burling told news.com.au that the rumours are "not even remotely correct".
"The salary figures for our network talent published last week in various outlets were not even remotely correct. Anyone who watches Today can confirm there's absolutely no tension on set," Mr Burling said.
"We couldn't be happier with our talented line-up of Karl, Sarah, Brooke, Alex and Tim who are working well and having a great time - end of story."
The statement comes after New Idea spoke to a source allegedly close to the show, who said the news of the pay gap was "anxiety inducing" for new host Sarah, who took over from Ally Langdon in January.
"The news of Karl's big pay cheque is anxiety inducing to say the least... Some are wondering why she isn't being more equally matched with Karl," a source allegedly said.
"If you were Sarah would you stay and put on a smile every day knowing full well you're being paid so much less than your male counterpart for doing the same job? I can imagine she's likely disappointed."
Image credits: Today