A week after his bombshell retirement announcement, David ‘Kochie’ Koch has officially revealed who will be taking his spot on the Sunrise couch next to co-host Natalie Barr.
After 21 years on air, Kochie, 67, told viewers on Monday, June 5 that former Olympian Matt Shirvington will take over as the new host.
Shirvington is already a familiar face among viewers as he’s been a regular fill-in host for Kochie in multiple airings and is Seven’s weekend sports presenter.
During his big reveal, Kochie gushed about his successor, saying Shirvington, 44, is the “perfect” fit for the role.
“You’ve been fantastic filling in every Friday, it’s been sensational. You are going to be the perfect fit,” he said.
“Congratulations, mate. The show is in such good hands.
“This show is way bigger than any one individual, and everyone plays such an important role. You will be sensational, so well done.”
In a statement from Seven, Shrivington admitted this was “a huge life shift” and is “humbled by the opportunity to co-host such an important show to so many Australians.”
“It’s a privilege to follow on from Kochie. He leaves behind a legacy of honesty, humility and a whole lot of fun, and I can’t wait to continue adding to that,” Shirivington said.
“To my new on-air family, particularly Nat, thanks for making me feel so welcome right from the start. Brekky Central, my new home. I like the sound of that!”
After spending two decades “battling stress” from having to wake up early to entertain viewers, Kochie explained it was time to hang up the boots and focus on different areas of his life.
“I know I’m going to miss it enormously, but it’s time for me to work business hours, and for (his wife) Libby and I to have a bit more flexibility to enjoy our burgeoning family, to travel and focus on our family business interests in Pinstripe Media and the Ausbiz business channel,” he shared.
“As everyone knows, I’m a finance nerd so you’ll still see me pop up every so often on RBA board meeting days or covering other big financial news, but as a guest rather than host.
“Coming up to 20 consecutive years as Australia’s most-watched breakfast show is a nice moment to exit stage left with an enormous sense of pride and gratitude. Thank you for the privilege.”
Shirvington is scheduled to debut as the official Sunrise co-host on Monday, June 12.