Nine’s news director, Darren Wick has confirmed he is in talks with Andrew Probyn for a dual newspaper and TV role at the network.
The news comes after Probyn, former political editor at the ABC was made redundant last month amid restructuring at the national broadcaster.
The Guardian reports that the new role would not replace Charles Croucher who was appointed chief political editor for Nine News in October 2022.
Wick told the Weekly Beast at an industry conference this week that he saw Probyn as a good news breaker.
“He is a big personality but we can handle big personalities: we had Laurie Oakes and Chris Uhlmann.”
See also: David Speers named ABC News national political lead as Insiders moves to Canberra
Last month, news of Probyn’s redundancy came as ABC announced it would cut as many as 100 jobs ahead of a major restructuring of the corporation that took effect as of the 1st of July.
The central purpose of the public broadcaster’s plan is to ensure the ABC remains relevant, delivers value for Australians, and continues to be the most trusted media organisation in the country. The outline sets out the priorities for the broadcaster over the next five years to deliver this outcome and ensure that it continues to have an essential role in Australian life.
ABC managing director David Anderson said the next stage of the strategy means the public broadcaster will meet changing audience needs while maintaining the commitment to quality, relevance, independence and its role as Australia’s most trusted media organisation.
“By 2028, the ABC will serve more Australians on the platform of their choice with made-for-digital content and journalism on ABC News, ABC iview, ABC listen and on major third-party platforms.
“Australians trust and value the ABC and this will not change. As we move through this period of digital evolution, Australians can continue to rely on us for the content and services that inform, educate and entertain,” he said.
“Our audiences can be assured we will safeguard traditional broadcast services as long as these remain essential for keeping Australians informed and entertained. As Australia changes, so must the ABC.
“This means changing to meet the needs of our audiences wherever they live. We will continue to serve all Australians, contribute to our national identity and remain an essential part of daily life,” Anderson added.
–
Top image: Andrew Probyn