Lisa Wilkinson’s departure from Channel Ten has been the subject of much speculation and media scrutiny, with revelations of her rumoured $1.7 million-a-year contract coming to an end.
Over the weekend, the seasoned broadcaster took to social media to make an announcement, writing, ‘So my time at Channel Ten has officially drawn to a close (and yes, the last couple of years have been pretty challenging), but there were still plenty of good times.’
‘Here’s to 2025, and new beginnings…’
Wilkinson, who has been a fixture on television screens for years, has been lauded by her peers in the comments section of her recent social media post, particularly in light of the tumultuous events that have unfolded in her professional life, with many teasing at her impact but also reasons for her departure.
One of them was her former The Project co-host, Peter Helliar, who called her a ‘warrior,’ adding, ‘… you brought a significant, important news story to the Australian public,’ referring to her significant work in helping Brittany Higgins tell her story in an interview.
‘Have only great things to say about you LW… All my [and] family’s love to yours and will see you soon.’
Podcaster Laura Byrne also sent her support, writing, ‘Can’t wait to see you be amazing at whatever project you throw yourself into next.’
‘Go get [them], Lisa! Looking forward to seeing what amazing things you will do,’ commented The Flying Doctors star Rebecca Gibney.
Meanwhile, a social media user wrote, ‘Brave is an understatement. You’re hot [and] you rock.’
Another one echoed, ‘The media needs more people like you. Strong ethics, compassionate, intelligent, and informative. Wishing you new adventures for 2025.’
Wilkinson’s tenure at Channel Ten was marked by significant challenges, including tensions with network executives, legal entanglements stemming from her Logies speech, and a defamation lawsuit related to her interview with Brittany Higgins.
Despite these hurdles, she has maintained a dignified presence and professionalism, earning her praise from peers and viewers.
During the Higgins-Lehrmann battle, she made a profound impact on the national conversation about sexual assault and workplace safety, underscoring her commitment to journalism that matters.
However, the end of Wilkinson’s contract with Ten does not signify the end of her legal battles. The fight over her legal bills continues, with her reportedly seeking approximately $1.8 million from the company for outside legal representation.
The complexities of these legal proceedings have reportedly been a source of stress for the television presenter, as detailed in court documents and communications between her agent and network executives.
‘The fallout from the Higgins trial has been distressing and unnecessarily enduring,’ stated her agent, Nick Fordham.
Wilkinson quit The Project in November 2022 and told viewers at the time, ‘The last six months have not been easy. And the relentless, targeted toxicity by some sections of the media has taken a toll not just on me but on people I love.’
Her distress over damaging leaks and the media’s portrayal of her situation led to concerns for her mental health, with Network Ten’s CEO expressing a desire to provide support.
‘As you are well aware she is really not in a great place, and I hope she is taking some professional mental health care. Let me know if she is not currently obtaining ongoing professional support, and we can assist in providing her access to our independent, confidential support services,’ Network Ten CEO Beverley McGarvey reportedly said in an email to Wilkinson’s agent.
‘…I just wanted to let you know we are concerned for her state of mind and appreciate this is difficult for her, noting that Ten’s lawyers are taking all the actions in response to the fallout from the Spotlight story that [is] legally available given the restraints of the current defamation proceedings.’
We invite our readers to share their thoughts on Lisa Wilkinson’s impact on the media industry and the challenges faced by public figures in the spotlight.
How do you view the balance between public interest and personal privacy in the age of relentless media coverage? Join the conversation below.
Also read: Lisa Wilkinson: Are women being targeted in airport security searches?
