Emma Freedman sacked by Channel Nine in shock TV decision

THIS time last week, popular Channel Nine presenter Emma Freedman was excitedly preparing to take on wider hosting duties over summer. Days later, she was sacked.

The 25-year-old Weekend Today weather presenter and Wide World of Sports regular was shown the door on Friday when network executives decided not to renew her contract.

But just last Monday, Nine arranged for Freedman to be interviewed by News Corp Australia to chat about her expanded summer role, including a move from weekends to the big-time weekdays on Today.

“I’m always wanting to do more and get out on the road, so I’m pretty excited about stepping up on Today,” Freedman said at the time, obviously unaware of the looming sacking.

“I always view it as a really positive experience to develop my skills and get better at what I do. I’m young and I want to be around for a long time, and in TV you have to earn your stripes.”

SHOCK AXING: Nine kicks Emma Freedman to the curb, colleagues shocked over sacking

Despite being considered a rising star, she was let go in a move that has dumbfounded some of her colleagues.

But it’s understood budget constraints forced bosses at Nine to look for cost-saving measures. Freedman’s salary, for what amounts to a casual hosting gig for much of the year, was seen to be an obvious cut.

“Life is really good at the moment — I love what I do and I’m really happy,” she said last week.

She spoke at length about her blossoming career and excitement at that year ahead, describing her professional life as “a dream”.

There was no hint that Freedman faced the possibility of her contract not being extended.

One of her now former colleagues said the sacking had rattled others who face contract negotiations in coming months.

“It’s sad but it’s also scary,” one source said. “I would’ve thought she was safe so I heard the news and was like, ‘What are they thinking?’”

Another described the move as a case of bad timing.

“Her contract was up ... (it) was a case of being in the wrong place at the wrong time.”

The identity, who is the daughter of horse racing Hall of Fame trainer Lee Freedman, started at the network five years ago after a chance meeting with a Today producer at a party.

“I was studying communications at uni but also doing a bit of radio and events work,” Freedman recalled. “TV hadn’t really crossed my mind and my break was pretty random, but I’m so glad the stars aligned.

“I was at this party being my typical loud self, cracking jokes and whatever, and obviously I made an impression.”

Her peers rated her as a solid operator who was especially adept at live broadcasting — something many younger presenters can struggle with.

RISING STAR: Television presenter Emma Freedman runs her own race

The public saw something special in her too, with her popularity growing over the years, but her appeal was broader than television.

Department store giant David Jones signed her as a fashion ambassador and she regularly hosted charity and social events.

While many waxed lyrical about her future prospects in television, Freedman was more modest during last week’s interview.

“I’m not naive about how tough TV can be. You have to work hard and stay focused, never assume anything.

“You can set a few goals about your career and what you want to do later on, but I think you’ve just got to be willing to get in there and do lots of different things.

“I’m looking forward to a fun and busy year ahead at work.”

Channel Nine confirmed Freedman would not be returning to Weekend Today next year, citing budget cuts and saying her contract expires at the end of the month.

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