Lisa Wilkinson's replacement to be paid much less than Karl Stefanovic
Even though it seems to be the only thing people in media are talking about at times, there’s still so much we don’t know about Lisa Wilkinson’s replacement on Today, except the fact they’re going to be earning much less than Karl.
Channel Nine is rumoured to have a replacement for Wilkinson locked in by the end of the week, but reports suggest they’ll be earning a quarter of Karl Stefanovic’s wage.
The Weekend Australian reported Nine offered Georgie Gardner a contract that worth $750,000 a year, which is no short sum, but pales in comparison to the $2 million a year that the Today co-host Stefanovic commands for the same position.
Rumours suggest Gardner has been ear-marked to host the show for four days a week, with Weekend Today’s Deb Knight co-hosting for the remaining day.
What might complicate negotiations however is Gardner’s young family, which had originally prompted her to leave the program in 2014 after seven years.
“I make this announcement with a very heavy heart because you are my family,” Gardner said at the time.
“The early hours are punishing and after seven years it’s time for me to catch up on some sleep. After unwavering support from Tim and my kids I want to give back to them. I figure I have limited time of Bronte and Angus wanting and needing their mother around, so I want to maximise and cherish these precious years.”
Still, money talks and as with anything in TV land, you can never say never.
What are your thoughts? Do you see a problem with the pay disparity? Who would you like to replace Lisa Wilkinson as the host of Today? Let us know in the comments.