Channel Nine makes another shock announcement
Channel 9 has made another shock announcement, with reports confirming one of the network’s most popular television programs is set to be axed in 2018.
The network, which made headlines this morning when it had confirmed the departure of popular Today show host Lisa Wilkinson, is set to axe Logie-award winning program The Footy Show, after 24 years on the television network.
#9NRLFootyShow fam. ❤️ pic.twitter.com/VkCt2GNa8q
— The NRL Footy Show (@NRLFootyShow) September 29, 2017
Fairfax Media reports the long-running program is set to be replaced by a new one-hour show headed by The Footy Show co-host Erin Molan, with a sharper football focus.
The Footy Show’s long-time host, Paul 'Fatty' Vautin is reportedly still contracted with the network for the next year, and has plans to spend more time in the commentary box.
The future of panellists Beau Ryan and Darryl Brohman remains unclear.
The Footy Show was a ground-breaking program when it first aired in the 1990s, but consistent drops in rating in recent years has put the show’s future under pressure.
A Nine spokesperson said: “The program is going through some changes in style and format that is yet to be determined. Under the new broadcast deal with the NRL there will be 23 Thursday night matches next season and the show will be off the back of that. Nothing is resolved in terms of how it will look and what talent will be used.”
What are your thoughts about this change, and the other changes announced by Channel Nine today? Are you a fan? Or are they making a big mistake?