Mel McLaughlin's Future at Channel Seven Uncertain

0:00This is Corey, here with your quick two-minute entertainment update. Speculation is growing about the future of sports reporter Mel McLaughlin at Channel 7. The 47-year-old has been off-air since January on approved leave. Her break was first set for six weeks, but is stretched to eight, with the network saying she won't return until March 15th at the earliest. Meanwhile, Channel 7 brought in new recruit Matt White to fill the gap. White, who spent five years on radio, is now handling sports duties alongside Jelisa Apps. He will also lead the expanded NRL coverage this season. McLaughlin was reportedly caught off guard by White's return. She was also passed over for a key hosting spot ahead of the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow. Instead, Emma Friedman will anchor the primetime coverage with Matt Shervington. Her salary of $500,000 has reportedly been cut following Seven's merger with another media company. As an exclusive contractor, rather than a full-time staffer,

1:02she invoices her appearance, which skips benefits like paid leave. Insiders say she's pricey, so the network saves her for high-stakes ratings periods. Adding to the buzz, McLaughlin recently split from her boyfriend of 10 years, Ashley Westwood. The pair kept the low profile during their relationship, which started back in 2016. Channel 7 has not commented on her status. The Daily News Now is presented by our sponsor. A pillow that plays your podcasts, music, or white noise privately, no earbuds required. S-O-L-L-I, solely pillow.com.