Today show star’s awkward response to Samantha Armytage replacing Sarah Abo on the breakfast program as both women avoid each other on the red carpet at the Nine Upfronts

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Channel Nine’s biggest stars were out in force for the Nine Upfronts in Sydney on Wednesday. 

I’ve been following the buzz, and everyone’s talking about one thing: is Samantha Armytage going to take over from Sarah Abo on Today? It’s got all the big names trying to figure it out, honestly!

The query was put to Today Extra host Sylvia Jeffreys, who had a rather awkward reply.  

The 39-year-old told the Daily Mail, ‘I’m confident you can talk to management,’ and then quickly left.

Abo herself skilfully avoided red carpet interviews, slinking into the venue wearing a terse smile. 

The host also made sure to avoid encountering Armytage, hurrying inside to quickly meet up with her colleagues from the Today show.

The 39-year-old kept it casual for Nine’s annual awards night, wearing black jeans and a white shirt tucked in.

Once inside, she slipped into a striking bright pink dress with a retro, 1980s shape and paired it with black strappy heels.

Abo also posed with the Today show team – Richard Wilkins and Karl Stefanovic – and they showed their support by staying close to her on the red carpet, linking arms as they posed for photos.

Sylvia opted for a chic look in a smart navy vest and matching, wide-cut trousers with white heels. 

Although she didn’t want to discuss Karl Stefanovic’s future on the Today show, Sylvia Jeffreys received positive news at the network’s upfronts presentation.

She’ll be heading up the broadcasting team for both the Olympics and Paralympics, working with Ally Langdon, James Bracey, Leila McKinnon, and Todd Woodbridge.

Sylvia will continue hosting in Sydney, and she’ll be joined by Dylan Alcott for the morning show, which will be broadcast from a brand-new, high-tech studio.

Sam Armytage looked stunning and camera-ready, clearly enjoying her moment in the spotlight.

The beloved TV personality, 49, turned heads as she made her debut as the host of The Golden Bachelor.

Sam looked fit and stylish in a black jumpsuit. It had a sleeveless top and relaxed-fit legs, which she paired with strappy heels.

She accessorised her look with golden bracelets, and wore her blonde locks in natural beach waves. 

Sam declined to comment on rumors that Today is planning significant changes to try and improve its ratings in the competitive morning news landscape.

Sources say Nine is secretly negotiating with Amanda Armytage, a well-known television personality, to take over Karl Stefanovic’s co-hosting role on Today, replacing the current host who has been with the show since 2023.

According to The Australian newspaper, the changes to the show’s cast are a last-ditch effort to beat Seven’s ‘Sunrise’ in the morning TV ratings.

Karl Stefanovic, 51, and Allison Langdon, 49, are being hailed as a powerful duo who could help Today challenge Sunrise’s long-held lead in morning television ratings.

The network hopes to repeat the success ‘Sunrise’ had in 2013 when Samantha Armytage joined, leading to higher ratings – a phenomenon they’re calling the ‘Armytage effect’.

Sam seemed unfazed by the busy, excited conversations around her on Wednesday. She confidently posed for photos with a bright smile, and skillfully managed to stay away from Abo.

Entertainment reporter Richard Wilkins from Today opted for his usual look: a classic black blazer, shirt, and pants.

Leila McKinnon turned heads in a vibrant yellow suit, paired with a light blue shirt and white strappy heels.

Excited about hosting Nine’s Olympic coverage, the presenter opted for a fresh makeup look and styled her blonde hair in loose waves.

MORE TO COME  

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2025-10-15 10:21