Channel Nine Faces Potential Cancellation of Footy Classified Amid Key Panelists Defection
Channel Nine's Footy Classified may be facing cancellation following the shocking departure of three key panelists to Channel Seven ahead of the 2025 AFL season. Kane Cornes, Caroline Wilson, and Craig Hutchison are leaving, prompting urgent discussions among network executives about the show's future. The situation is causing frustration among other team members, particularly Matthew Lloyd, as the grand final approaches.
Channel Nine's Footy Classified show may face cancellation on Tuesday night following the unexpected departure of three panel members to Channel Seven. This move comes just ahead of the 2025 AFL season, stirring significant concern among network executives.
Panel Members Depart for Channel Seven
Three prominent figures from Footy Classified, including former Port Adelaide premiership player Kane Cornes, veteran journalist Caroline Wilson, and media personality Craig Hutchison, are making their way to Channel Seven. Hutchison is set to leverage his TV production company to enhance Seven's football programming. Their departure raises questions about the future of Footy Classified, especially as they were scheduled to preview the AFL Grand Final alongside Essendon champion Matthew Lloyd, who expressed his disappointment about the situation.
Crisis Talks Underway at Channel Nine
In light of these developments, Channel Nine executives are reportedly engaged in 'crisis talks' to evaluate their options. The show has been tentatively rescheduled for Tuesday, following the conclusion of the Brownlow Medal ceremony. Meanwhile, News Corp has indicated that notable figures such as Eddie McGuire, Geelong great Jimmy Bartel, and footy reporter Damian Barrett have been placed on standby as the network explores potential adjustments in response to this upheaval.
Cornes' Controversial Start at Channel Seven
In August, Kane Cornes publicly announced his decision to join Channel Seven, which has already created some ripples. Notably, prior to his official debut, he stirred controversy with a harsh critique of Richmond legend Trent Cotchin. Cornes discussed the backlash he received on the Howie Games podcast, revealing that the producers at Channel Seven were not pleased with the parody he created of Cotchin's on-camera delivery. Cornes has expressed no regrets over the incident, stating that while it might have been challenging for Cotchin to watch, he believes it was all in good fun.
