Today, the news has come out that Mark Ferguson will be leaving ch 9 at the end of his contract in October and going over to ch 7, where he will most likely read the weekend news. Mark used to read the 6pm news on weeknights for 9 Sydney but was unexpectedly dumped for Peter Overton, who has failed to increase ratings for 9 News. Apparently Mark was once promised a more long term position on 9's 6pm new in Sydney.
Mark is currently the news reader on 9's new one hour 4.30 show THIS Afternoon, were he reads news in brief at 4.30 and 5pm, and exchanges comments with other hosts in between. THIS Afternoon so far is failing in the ratings, falling way behind 7's 4.30 News and 10's the Bold and the Beautiful.
Following is the press release from ch 9, word for word. Great to see Nine consider themsleves "flattered" that another network have gone to them for a news reader!
Mark Ferguson to Leave Channel Nine
Channel Nine announced today that newsreader Mark Ferguson had declined to sign a new contract with the network.
Nine is very disappointed Mark has turned down the generous offer that was made to re-new his contract.
Mark has been with Nine News for over 17 years, and will be greatly missed by his colleagues. Everyone at Nine wishes Mark and his family all the best for the future.
Nine CEO David Gyngell said today, “Mark has been a colleague and friend for many years. I wish him all the best. We’re actually flattered that another network had to look to Nine to find a new newsreader.
“Our own news service is the strongest its been for many years, it’s building a dedicated audience. We’re delighted that Georgie Gardner is joining Pete Overton and the 6pm team to continue the fight back. They both bring a warmth and authority which Nine’s viewers appreciate.”
Mark Ferguson said: “I’ve had a wonderful journey at Channel Nine – and worked alongside some great people – but it's time for a change. I wish David and his team all the very best.”
Mark Ferguson will continue on air as part of the Nine News team until his current contract ends last this year.
