Industry insiders are buzzing with speculation that Carrie Bickmore could be poised for a television comeback in the near future. This follows the recent merger between Southern Cross Media (SCM) and Network Seven, a deal that has sparked discussions about cross-platform talent utilisation.
Merger Fuels Comeback Speculation
The radio star, aged 45, was once a beloved figure on Channel Ten until her high-profile departure from The Project in 2022 marked her exit from the network. With her Hit Network show now under the SCM umbrella, reports suggest she may soon appear on a Seven series. News.com.au highlighted this possibility on Friday, noting that executives from both brands are likely to maximise the SCM roster of radio personalities familiar to Seven audiences.
Cross-Platform Talent Opportunities
Bickmore is not the only talent in focus; other well-known figures like Fifi Box and Mick Molloy are also part of the SCM lineup that could benefit from television exposure. Conversely, SCM stations such as Triple M, Fox, and Hit Network are reportedly exploring opportunities for Seven TV stars like Sonia Kruger and Larry Emdur to transition into radio roles. This strategic move aims to create synergies post-merger, though Daily Mail has reached out to Seven and SCM for official comment without immediate response.
Merger Details and Industry Impact
Seven West Media merged with the Southern Cross Media Group last month in a deal valued between $385 million and $400 million. Serious talks about this merger began last October, causing unease among Channel Seven stars at the time. An insider told Woman's Day that such mergers often lead to unexpected job cuts, with The Morning Show hosts Larry Emdur, 61, and Kylie Gillies particularly concerned due to their substantial salaries.
The insider added that many believe the show requires a refresh, and financial considerations could overshadow job security. This context sets the stage for potential reshuffles and new opportunities, including Bickmore's speculated return to television.
Personal Life and Public Scrutiny
Amid these professional developments, Bickmore has faced public attention for personal matters. She was recently criticised for wearing a revealing outfit to her colleague Jesse Watkins' wedding earlier this month. The radio star chose a shimmering cream two-piece set by Koster Kulture, featuring a long skirt with a high thigh slit. Bickmore explained to fans that she saw the outfit on someone else on New Year's Day and decided to emulate the look.
Additionally, Bickmore has been the subject of persistent romance rumours with her co-host Tommy Little, fueled by their on-air chemistry and social media interactions. The pair have been spotted together at events like a golf tournament in Adelaide and a trip to Uluru, with Bickmore sharing a sweet Instagram snap of them embracing at the LIV Golf tournament last year. These rumours gained traction after her public split from long-time partner Chris Walker in 2023.
Future Prospects and Industry Watch
As the media landscape evolves with this merger, all eyes are on how talents like Carrie Bickmore will navigate new opportunities. Her potential TV comeback represents a significant shift, highlighting the broader trend of integrating radio and television personalities in Australia's competitive entertainment sector. Stakeholders await further announcements to see how these cross-platform strategies will unfold in the coming months.
