Veteran Channel 7 news presenter announces shock departure
Longtime presenter of Channel 7 news Jodie Speers has announced her departure from the program after 15 years.
Jodie has long been the face of the early morning 7News bulletin, but has decided to step back after a decade and a half behind the desk.
Taking to Instagram on Friday, she announced it would be her final day on the job.
Jodie shared a series of photos documenting her highlights from her many years in the role, while candidly sharing why she was calling it quits.
“The end of an era! I didn’t expect to feel so emotional today! 💓” she said.
“This job has given me so much over the past 15 years. From a stint in federal parliament, another one in the courts, and everything from crime scenes to red carpets, bushfires to brain surgeries, every day was different."
“Sometimes sad, often stressful, at times hilarious or completely bizarre 🤪”
Speers then spoke of how the job impacted her family life, admitting it had been difficult balancing the unusual hours and being a mother to three kids, who she shared with husband Ben Fordham.
“I’ve since spent years reading the early news ... juggling babies and toddlers, getting up at an ungodly hour ... but getting home in time to see my babies wake up."
“I’ve been chipping away at a law degree for the last year and now looking forward to a new season ... getting back to court in a different capacity!"
“As always, the people make the place — I’ve worked with so many over the years — and can’t think of a single bad egg. It’s these guys I will definitely miss the most ❤️🙏.”
Friends and colleagues flocked to the comment section to send their well wishes to Jodie on her next venture, while congratulating her 15-year stint with Channel 7.
Sunrise weather presenter Sam Mac said, “Going to miss starting our day with you 🙌 But your new profession may come in handy for me one day 🤷🏽♂️ congratulations & well done 👏.”
“You are incredible! I always loved seeing you if i was ever in Sydney. You are so warm, genuine and kind! Cannot believe you’ve been working, studying law and juggling 3 kids! Amazing! Big love and best wishes for the next chapter x,” former 7News presenter Kendall Gilding said.
“One of the best in TV! Absolute class act,” Sunrise presenter Shaun White said.
Image credits: Instagram