Report: Channel 7 star ‘less than impressed’ before exit

Presenter Jacqui Felgate caught everyone by surprise with her abrupt exit from Channel 7. A report has revealed a new side of the story.

Jacqui Felgate and Rebecca Maddern. Photo: Josie Hayden, Jacqui Felgate.

Popular presenter Jacqui Felgate was reportedly less than happy before her shock decision to leave Channel 7.

Felgate, a respected newsreader who has been heavily involved in Seven’s AFL coverage, announced on Instagram earlier this month she was pursuing other opportunities as she thanked her husband, fellow Seven presenter Michael Felgate.

Stream every match of every round of the 2022 Toyota AFL Premiership Season Live & Ad-Break Free In-Play on Kayo. New to Kayo? Try 14-Days Free Now >

Felgate’s role in Seven’s AFL coverage has since been filled by Abbey Gelmi.

Felgate is moving on after nearly a decade at Seven, where her role grew to include regular appearances in co-hosting the Brownlow medal presentation.

The Australian now reports the social media influencer, who has more than 200,000 followers on Instagram, may have been displeased with recent changes to the network’s news line-up.

Felgate is chasing other opportunities. Picture: Jay Town

She may continue co-hosting the Brownlow Medal.

The report claims Felgate was “less than impressed” when Rebecca Maddern joined the network and was moved into a position co-hosting Seven’s weekend news bulletins in Melbourne

Maddern, a former host of The Footy Show at Channel 9, has been co-hosting the weekend 6pm news slot alongside Mike Amor.

The report claims Felgate and Maddern have the same management company.

Felgate’s departure comes just three months after Maddern joined the network.

Felgate became emotional when she signed off from her final sports bulletin earlier this month.

“I’m had a wonderful time here at Seven,” she said.

Mike Amor, Abbey Gelmi and Rebecca Maddern Picture: Supplied

“The last two years have been have been really tough and I’m looking forward to being a good mum to my kids.”

Speaking to the Herald Sun, Felgate added: “It’s not easy having a young family and juggling the work that’s required to be a journalist.

“Every single parent and family knows exactly what the juggle is like. The last few years have made that clearer, what are your priorities in life and what do you want to do next. I’ve been offered some great opportunities but with a lot less pressure.”

Jacqui Felgate is leaving Channel 7.

Gelmi, meanwhile, has been in a relationship with Richmond premiership player Kane Lambert since midway through last year.

She moved to Melbourne last year following her divorce from sports presenter Ben Way, which came 12 months after their wedding in South Australia.

The 32-year-old, who is the grand daughter of Olympic legend Herb Elliot, changed her name back to her maiden “Gelmi” title following the break-up.

Felgate (left) has been a key part of Seven’s footy coverage. Photo: Channel 7.