Samantha Armytage has dropped a bombshell, announcing she is leaving Network Seven after 21 years.
Armytage, 47, has been a familiar face for the network across shows such as Sunrise, The Morning Show and, most recently, Farmer Wants A Wife.
The Aussie TV personality confirmed in an Instagram post on Sunday that she would exit when her contract ends in October 2024.
“21 is a coming-of-age,” she wrote. “And so, after that many years, I am departing Channel 7 with lots of happy memories, a full heart & huge thanks to the many fantastic colleagues along the journey.
“There’s too many highlights to list ~ I have hosted almost every show in the network (from Sunrise dawn to Farmer’s dusk) ~ & covered many of the important news stories of the past 2 decades.
“I started at 7 as a fresh-faced 26yo journo & will leave as a … ahe … more matured -faced woman – who’s worked hard, had THE most incredible experiences & also a lot of fun.
“I hope I’ve brought a little bit of info & sparkle into your living rooms so far, to ALL who watched, thank you for tuning in for so many years.
“This is not the end, just the end of this chapter.”
Armytage shared a carousel of images from her two-decade career with the network and posted a “highlights reel” in her Stories.
“I’ll see you all again, soon. Sam xox,” she signed off.
Seven has confirmed that former host Natalie Gruzlewski will continue with Farmer Wants A Wife in 2025.
In a statement, Seven’s Group Managing Director Angus Ross said the network supported Armytage’s decision to leave the network.
“Sam has made a remarkable contribution to Seven over more than two decades, from 7NEWS and Sunrise to, more recently, Farmer Wants A Wife,” Ross said.
“Her genuine affection for the country lifestyle she’s grown up with and enjoys to this day has shone through her three seasons with the TV Week Logie Award-nominated series.
“It’s been a pleasure watching Sam share her pride of these communities with Australia as our incredible farmer love stories have unfolded.
“We wish Sam – and her farmer – every happiness and success for the future,” Ross concluded, referring to Armytage’s farmer husband Richard Lavender.
Fans expressed their sadness to see Armytage leave the network.
“I feel sad that you’re closing this chapter, you’re truly gifted at what you do, genuinely authentic, you make people smile,” wrote fellow TV personality Catriona Rowntree.
“I look forward to seeing what your ‘next chapter’ entails, but know that you’ve left an incredibly positive legacy.”
“Nobody can light up a TV screen like you, my friend,” one follower wrote.
“You always gave of your all, reliable, consistent, professional , with a wonderful sense of humour, and a very cheeky smile!” wrote another.
“Thank you for all that you have given to us, and I can’t wait to see what the next journey brings you.”
