Samantha Armytage proposes Natalie Gruzlewski's return to Farmer Wants A Wife amid backlash
- Samantha Armytage faced significant criticism online after taking over as host of Farmer Wants A Wife.
- She proposed reinstating Natalie Gruzlewski at Channel Seven before moving to Channel Nine.
- Armytage's new role in The Golden Bachelor aims to target a demographic seeking love at an older age.
In August 2024, Samantha Armytage, a veteran presenter in Australia, made headlines as she left Channel Seven after a controversial tenure as the host of 'Farmer Wants A Wife'. Her exit followed months of online criticism from viewers who were unhappy with her replacing the beloved former host, Natalie Gruzlewski. As Armytage transitioned to Channel Nine to host 'The Golden Bachelor', she reportedly felt the weight of viewers' discontent and acknowledged their pleas for Gruzlewski's return. Before her departure, she proposed that Seven reinstate Gruzlewski as host of the dating series, reflecting her recognition of the viewer's affection for Gruzlewski and the complicated reception of her own hosting. Despite the backlash, Armytage expressed excitement over her new role, stating that she felt 'well-suited' to hosting a dating show aimed at older singles, which had already proven to be a success in the United States. The US version of the show garnered impressive viewership, with its finale attracting over 6 million viewers, contributing to Armytage's optimism for the reception in the Australian market. By stepping into this new role, she aimed to breathe fresh energy into the franchise while also navigating the challenges of public opinion and the legacy left by her predecessor.