In a competitive news landscape, 7NEWS is quietly trialling a new potential show called The World with Whitfeld, fronted by seasoned journalist Hugh Whitfeld, Mediaweek understands.
The move comes as the network is keen to try new formats and experiment with new ideas following the departure of Anthony de Ceglie. Early episodes are now available on YouTube.
Fronted by Whitfeld, the show takes a global lens to current affairs, breaking down key international stories for Australian audiences.
Whitfeld, whose current role is National News Desk Director/Foreign Editor at 7NEWS, returned from working as Europe Bureau Chief in London last year.
Insiders say the decision to trial The World with Whitfeld on YouTube is a deliberate move to refine the show’s tone, format, and direction before potentially committing to a broader release.
Hugh Whitfeld
The news comes following the announcement of multiple new hires for the 7NEWS teams across Melbourne and Sydney from Nine.
Nine’s long-serving reporter and former US correspondent Laura Turner will join the Seven Melbourne newsroom while Tanya Weingarth will join 7NEWS from Nine as Executive Producer of the 6pm Sydney bulletin.