Rebecca Maddern, Karina Cavalho: Tensions over a top newsreading job burst into the open at Channel Seven Melbourne

Rebecca Maddern, Karina Cavalho: Tensions over a top newsreading job burst into the open at Channel Seven Melbourne

As a seasoned lifestyle expert with over two decades of experience in the dynamic world of broadcast journalism, I can empathize deeply with Rebecca Maddern‘s current predicament. Having navigated through similar situations myself, I understand the nerve-wracking tension that comes with the arrival of a new colleague, especially one who might potentially encroach on your established territory.


The visit of a past ABC TV host to Channel Seven’s Melbourne headquarters has caused some discontent, particularly among the well-regarded news and sports presenter, Rebecca Maddern.

Sources informed Daily Mail Australia that the veteran host, aged 47, is feeling anxious about her position within the network due to the latest recruitment of Carvalho, 43, and a significant reduction in staff members across various regions.

As a seasoned journalist with years of experience under my belt, I can empathize with Maddern having to take a short break from her usual evening news anchoring role due to a family wedding overseas. Being a working professional myself, I understand the juggling act that comes with balancing personal and professional commitments. It’s always a bittersweet moment when we have to step away from our duties, but family obligations often take precedence. I wish Maddern all the best during her absence and look forward to welcoming her back in September.

While she was preparing to depart, sources claimed that Maddern was irate upon finding out that Cavalho had completed pre-recorded work she had anticipated doing at the network’s Docklands studios before her arrival.

According to a source speaking with Daily Mail Australia, some team members believe Karina was brought in as Bec’s replacement. This source also mentioned that Maddern has recently been quite outspoken in advocating for her assigned area within the newsroom.

However, some high-ranking figures at Station Seven disagreed, stating that Maddern was an invaluable asset to both their news and sports departments. They also believed it was crucial to have more senior, locally based female anchor personalities.

Maddern is on a long-term contract and highly valued by the station, sources insisted. 

Privately, Maddern’s dedicated coworkers are reportedly standing by her, offering guidance as she navigates this complex evolving situation.

Rebecca Maddern, Karina Cavalho: Tensions over a top newsreading job burst into the open at Channel Seven Melbourne

Rebecca Maddern, Karina Cavalho: Tensions over a top newsreading job burst into the open at Channel Seven Melbourne

‘Instead of Bec coming in to record ahead of time, they informed her that Karina had taken care of it earlier.’ (In this version, the sentence structure is reorganized for clarity and the passive voice is replaced with active.)

However, Bec always insists on playing her own recordings, which the producers support because they stand by her. A palpable tension exists in this situation.

It’s not the first time Maddern has been the subject of intrigue in the Melbourne newsroom. 

Two years past, popular local news figure Jacqui Felgate reportedly expressed displeasure when Maddern unexpectedly took over the newsreading position at our network, after switching from Nine. Notably, Felgate decided to leave Seven a few months afterwards.

Last month, it was revealed that energetic and passionate individual, Calvalho, will be joining our network, filling in for Maddern during her scheduled time off.

In my excitement, I’m thrilled to have become part of the esteemed 7NEWS team here in Melbourne. I eagerly anticipate contributing significantly to the continued prosperity of this remarkable network. (Carvalho’s statement)

Being a member of the Seven newsroom in Melbourne has always been an honor, as this city consistently boasts the most enthusiastic viewers for both news and sports across the nation.

Rebecca Maddern, Karina Cavalho: Tensions over a top newsreading job burst into the open at Channel Seven Melbourne
Rebecca Maddern, Karina Cavalho: Tensions over a top newsreading job burst into the open at Channel Seven Melbourne
Rebecca Maddern, Karina Cavalho: Tensions over a top newsreading job burst into the open at Channel Seven Melbourne
Rebecca Maddern, Karina Cavalho: Tensions over a top newsreading job burst into the open at Channel Seven Melbourne

A source close to the TV industry suggested that Maddern might have felt uneasy about Chris Salter, a new news director with whom she is not believed to have a strong connection, being appointed.

The free-to-air broadcaster has embarked on a wave of staff cuts – culling a reported 150 staff.

It comes just weeks after Channel Seven announced restructures across their businesses.

As a seasoned journalist who has spent many years covering local news, I must say that the recent departures of veteran anchors Sharyn Ghidella and Paul Burt from their respective positions in Brisbane and Gold Coast have certainly made an impact on the local television scene.

Additionally, well-known crime journalists such as Rob Ovadia based in Sydney and Cameron Baud from Melbourne were also among those being let go.

The focus on the network will become even brighter as the ABC’s Four Corners program airs a documentary about the culture at Seven on Monday evening, attracting increased attention.

Last week’s special included former Seven employees, Olivia Babb and Amber Harrison, as guests on the show.

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2024-08-12 02:35

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