Is Richard Wilkins moving away from Today? The breakfast show’s longtime entertainment reporter will have a ‘reduced role on air in 2023’
Richard Wilkins could be preparing for retirement next year, as the Weekend Today co-host will cut back on his on-camera time in 2023.
After 35 years on the network, Nine sources said that he will assume the title of ‘Network Entertainment Publisher’ next year.
the daily telegraph also reported that the 68-year-old may soon be replaced as co-host of the weekend breakfast show by Charles Croucher.
Richard Wilkins, 68, (pictured) could be preparing for retirement next year, as the Weekend Today co-host will cut back on his on-camera time in 2023.
The publication went on to report that Belinda Russell’s role on Weekend Today and Today Extra may also look different in the New Year.
Daily Mail Australia has contacted Nine for comment.
It’s not the only time Wilkins has faced rumors that he’s leaving Today soon.
In December 2021, Nine boss Darren Wick was forced to tell The Sunday Telegraph that Wilkins was returning to work amid rumors that his workload was being reduced due to health concerns.
After 35 years on the network, Nine’s sources said that he will assume the title of ‘Network Entertainment Publisher’ next year.
‘Richard is absolutely fine. He is fighting fit and will be with us for many more years to come,” he said at the time.
The entertainment reporter had tested positive for COVID-19 three times in the past year and spent 18 days in isolation.
It comes after Wilkins celebrated 35 years with Channel Nine in May by hosting a poolside party at her home in Sydney’s Cremorne and inviting all her celebrity friends.
People like Sylvia Jeffreys, Lauren Phillips, Ben Fordham, Jayne Azzopardi and Tim Gilbert attended.
The Daily Telegraph also reported that the 68-year-old may soon be replaced as co-host of the weekend breakfast show by Charles Croucher (pictured)
It’s not the only time Wilkins has faced rumors that he’s leaving Today soon. Pictured during Today’s 40-year milestone celebration
Jeffreys and Phillips took to Instagram to congratulate Richard on his incredible career milestone.
Alongside a group photo from the party, Jeffreys, 36, wrote: ‘Dickie is the kind of guy that makes you feel like family. I am very proud to call him my partner and celebrate his 35 years at Channel Nine. We love you, Dickie Bird.
Phillips also shared two photos of her hugging Wilkins and holding a glass of champagne.
‘My favorite of all time. Celebrating 35 years of this absolute legend on Channel 9. We adore you Dickie xx,’ he gushed.
Azzopardi shared a close-up of the epic cake that featured a photo of Wilkins in one of his signature outfits on the icing, while Fordham, 45, shared two candid photos of himself grabbing Wilkin’s girlfriend Nicola Dale while she was leaning over the pool.
It comes after Wilkins celebrated 35 years with Channel Nine in May by hosting a poolside party at her home in Sydney’s Cremorne and inviting all her celebrity friends. Pictured left to right: Sylvia Jeffreys, Richard Wilkins, Tim Gilbert and James Birtles