Page 13: Seven’s top-end TV talent being head-hunted by rival networks

It hasn’t been a great year for Channel 7, and now word is out that rival TV networks are headhunting some of the newsroom’s top-end talent.

Seven boss Kerry Stokes was on Friday describing the network’s annus horribilis in a rather more succinct Aussie way: “shit year”.

It blowback, hmmm poor choice of words, following the Bruce Lehrmann fiasco, has meant money is tight, with word Ch7 state political reporter Sharnelle Vella might not be the only one to leave.

Secret’s out! Rebecca Maddern is tipped to replace Tim Watson on Seven’s sport anchor desk. Picture: Josie Hayden

Sharnelle Vella may not be the only big move at Channel 7 this week.

Seven have dominated politics and crime coverage in the TV world, but word is out rival networks have become aware some of the newsroom’s top end talent are available, with more head hunting and poaching sounded out this week.

It comes amid TV’s worst kept secret that Rebecca Maddern will be announced as Tim Watson’s replacement on Seven’s sports anchor desk. Watch this space!