Timing of Wick’s Nine exit seen as strategic

Darren Wick’s mysterious departure from Channel 9 came as no surprise to many, although some noted the strategic timing of news boss ‘Wickie’s’ resignation.

A Current Affair, hosted by Ally Landon, is Nine’s strongest brand.

News of Darren Wick’s mysterious departure from Channel 9 came as no surprise to both those within and outside of the network, thanks to his recent long and unexplained absence.

Wick, 60, who had been MIA for more than a month with no explanation, announced late on Friday he would not return to the network he has worked at for 29 years.

It comes after multiple Nine publicists told Confidential all week that the rumours of Wick’s departure were “not correct” and that he would be “returning soon”.

The veteran, who was Nine’s director of news and current affairs for 13 years, issued a statement to staff on Friday that read: “It’s been a privilege to work alongside such talented, inspirational and supportive people.

“Nine is so much more than a company. It’s a family. And it’s a terrific one. Some of you are aware that I have taken a few weeks off to think about my future.

Darren Wick has resigned from his role as Nine news boss. Picture: Supplied

“And after many long beach walks and even longer conversations, I know in my heart that this is the right time for me to step down and leave Nine.

“I’m tired and need a rest.

“I genuinely do LOVE YOUSE ALL.”

Many in the industry couldn’t help but notice the strategic timing of “Wickie’s” resignation, with one crisis manager insisting a Friday-afternoon send-out “means many media organisations won’t bother running it or it would be buried”.

“He announced it on Friday afternoon, which is what you do when you don’t want it talked about in the press,” they said.

It’s been noted that his exit comes at a time when Nine News and current affairs shows are thriving, suggesting the move has nothing to do with his performance.

“Nine’s first quarter has dominated ratings driven by the halo effect Married At First Sight brings to its schedule,” TV commentator David Knox said.

“Nine’s strongest news brand is A Current Affair, which wins day in, day out,

“Seven has been dominant in news for several years now, prompting Nine to make changes in 2024 with it Tipping Point lead-in and anchor changes in Melbourne.

“To their credit, these have worked well.”

While some at Nine are critical of Wick and the way he does business, others insist he is very well liked.

“Darren Wick was highly regarded by staff,” Knox said.