Nine weather presenter Amber Sherlock will depart the network.
Amber Sherlock, a long-standing presenter at Nine Network, has announced her departure, attributing her exit to the network’s recent “streamlining” efforts. After two decades of service as a TV host and journalist, Sherlock described her departure as the “end of an era for dedicated 6pm weather presenters.” Her announcement on social media came shortly after her absence from the screen was noted on Monday.
The decision to part ways with Sherlock is part of a broader wave of redundancies affecting Nine’s broadcast and streaming divisions. “Nearly 20 years anywhere is a milestone, but to be in your lounge rooms every evening has been a privilege,” Sherlock wrote. Her career at Nine spanned various roles, from finance journalism to being the inaugural newsreader for Weekend Today, and most recently, a key member of the 6pm Sydney news team alongside Peter Overton and James Bracey.
The Impact of Streamlining at Nine Network
The announcement comes as Nine Network undergoes significant restructuring, with approximately 50 jobs reportedly at risk. Media Week has already reported the departures of Adelaide newsreader Kate Collins and Queensland sports reporter Jonathan Uptin. Long-time presenter Livinia Nixon also recently ended her tenure, signaling a broader shift within the network.
“For a nation obsessed with weather, I’ve loved bringing a little sunshine to every bulletin,” Sherlock reflected. “Just like Melbourne turned a bit greyer with Livinia’s departure announced last week, Sydney’s feeling a little cloudier now too.”
“It seems like it’s the end of an era for dedicated 6pm weather presenters as ‘streamlining’ seems to be the prevailing forecast.”
Amber Sherlock’s Career and Contributions
Throughout her career, Sherlock has been a familiar face on Australian television, known for her dedication and professionalism. Her journey at Nine began with finance journalism, evolving into various roles across the network’s news bulletins. “Over the years, I’ve made lifelong friends, shared countless laughs, and celebrated many milestones,” she shared.
Despite being offered alternative roles, Sherlock chose to step away, seeking new opportunities. “While I was offered the possibility of a few other roles, it makes sense to step away now and look at something fresh,” she stated.
Memorable Moments and Future Plans
Sherlock’s time at Nine was not without its memorable moments, including the infamous “jacketgate” incident in 2017, where she was caught on camera asking colleague Julie Snook to change her outfit. This incident, while controversial, highlighted the pressures and dynamics of live television.
Looking ahead, Sherlock hinted at “exciting projects” on the horizon, supported by her family. Despite not having the chance to formally bid farewell on-air, her departure was acknowledged by Sydney colleague Georgie Gardner, who extended best wishes to Sherlock and her family.
“For a number of years, Amber has been a valued member of the news team, bringing us our daily weather reports on behalf of Nine News.”
Implications for the Future of Australian Television
The changes at Nine reflect broader industry trends where traditional roles are being reassessed in the face of digital transformation and changing viewer habits. The departure of seasoned professionals like Sherlock and Nixon raises questions about the future of dedicated roles in television news.
As networks streamline operations, the challenge will be to maintain the quality and trust that viewers have come to expect. For Sherlock, this transition marks the end of a significant chapter, but also the beginning of new possibilities in her career.
As the television landscape continues to evolve, the industry will watch closely to see how networks like Nine adapt to these changes while retaining their core audience. Sherlock’s departure, while a loss for Nine, may also serve as a catalyst for innovation and new approaches in news broadcasting.
