TV channels chase Jen Hawkins

Channel 9 is trying to lure TV's hottest property, former Miss Universe Jennifer Hawkins, away from rival Channel 7.

The Great Outdoors reporter's three-year contract with Seven expires in early October, leaving Nine open to aggressively pursue the small-screen golden girl.

Seven has begun preliminary talks with Hawkins' manager Sean Anderson about re-signing the star - who is unquestionably one of the biggest names at the network.

But Anderson has revealed Nine is also chasing the bankable glamour queen.

"Yes, we are in negotiations with Channel 7 for renewal," Anderson said.

"Yes, Nine has approached me regarding Jennifer. I have not met with Nine yet."

Nine is being tight-lipped about its pursuit, but when asked recently if the network would be interested in adding Hawkins to its dwindling stable of ageing stars, a senior Nine source replied: "Of course."

Hawkins' appeal is no secret - the former Newcastle cheerleader has turned herself into the multi-million dollar girl since winning the Miss Universe crown and landing lucrative contracts with Myer, Covergirl and Loveable.

She has also fielded interest from Hollywood, after recently turning down a role in the Pink Panther film sequel.

While the leggy blonde's back-to-back commitments in Australia have made feature film roles impossible, Hawkins told Confidential she would be keen to pursue film opportunities if she can eventually find an opening in her frantic schedule.

"I'm hoping Hollywood will come knocking again and that the time will be right," she said.