Channel Nine Faces Big Pay Cuts and Talent Changes

Channel Nine is reportedly preparing for a significant overhaul of its on-air talent, likened to a "Hunger Games-style" competition for survival. Insiders reveal that the network is reviewing the contracts of all its on-air personalities, including prominent figures like Eddie McGuire, Liz Hayes, and Tracy Grimshaw, as it grapples with escalating costs. The network's financial controllers and executives have been engaged in intense discussions for months, acknowledging the harsh reality that retaining all their top talent may not be feasible. The situation is particularly challenging for the network's leading stars, including Hayes, Grimshaw, and Tara Brown. While executives recognize their immense value, they are struggling to find a way to afford their salaries. For instance, Liz Hayes is reportedly on a $750,000 deal, which raises questions about her role given her limited appearances on "60 Minutes" last year. The emergence of younger talent willing to work for significantly less complicates the decision-making process further. Tracy Grimshaw, who stepped down from hosting "A Current Affair" after 17 years, remains a beloved figure at Nine, but her future is uncertain as the network seeks to balance its budget. The dilemma extends to other high-profile personalities, with sources indicating that the industry is in a cost-cutting mode, emphasizing that no business has ever achieved success solely through cuts. As Channel Nine navigates these turbulent waters, the fate of its iconic stars hangs in the balance.