NEED TO KNOW
- Today Show host Karl Stefanovic is said to be priming young gun Chaad Hewitt to take his spot.
- According to an insider, Channel Nine is looking for young talent – and Chaad, a popular on TikTok journalism student, seems to fit the bill.
- The network is reportedly looking to evolve its digital strategy and entice a younger audience.
The era of ‘business as usual’ at Channel Nine is officially over, as the rumoured recent hire of a popular TikTok journalism student heralds the start of a fresh-faced generation taking over Today.
As Nine’s most bankable star, Karl Stefanovic enjoys massive success with his self-funded podcast; we’re told the network is ready to evolve its digital strategy.
“There’s no denying the media landscape is shifting fast,” one well-placed source tells us.
“Nine is looking for young talent with built-in fans who actually know their way around a viral trend. That’s the new reality.”
And Chaad Hewitt, the 21-year-old viral sensation who Karl hand-picked to appear on Today, is leading the charge.
Insiders say he’s being primed to take the reins, and while legacy TV stalwarts might scoff at a social media star joining the ranks, it’s history repeating itself.
“When breakout stars like Graham Kennedy and Bert Newton first waltzed in, you best believe there were naysayers. It’s that same shift, just in a digital world,” the source says.
Chaad isn’t the typical newsroom recruit, but with a combined social reach of more than one million followers, he offers a bridge to a younger audience that morning TV has been desperate to capture.
“Chaad has single TikTok clips with more views than an entire episode of Today,” the source adds.
“You can’t blame the bosses for thinking outside the box. With Today still chasing Sunrise in the ratings, it’s time to try something new.”
Tellingly, Chaad has also officially signed with Sharon Finnigan of SF Celebrity Management, Karl’s long-time powerhouse agent, whose stable of stars also includes Natalie Barr and Michael Usher.
“Sharon knows a winner when she sees one,” says the insider.
“She’s making sure she’s got the next generation on her books when Karl decides to go solo.”
