Matt Doran’s surprising departure from Weekend Sunrise at the end of the year has left many viewers wondering who will step into his shoes.
After five years as co-host, Doran announced his decision to leave the popular breakfast program, citing a desire to focus on his family and pursue new opportunities in storytelling.
As fans awaited the reveal of his replacement, several names were already generating buzz. But now, we know who the new host of Weekend Sunrisecome will be, and it’s surprised many!
Who will be the new co-host of Weekend Sunrise?
After a few weeks of rumours, the Seven Network has announced that David Woiwod will be the new co-host of Weekend Sunrise.
The experienced broadcaster has returned to Australia this week after spending the past five years in the US as the 7NEWS US Bureau Chief. Starting Saturday, he’ll join Monique Wright in his new role.
No stranger to Weekend Sunrise viewers, Woiwod was Sunrise’s Melbourne correspondent for four years before his time with the 7NEWS bureau in Los Angeles.
“Five years on the road as a foreign correspondent covering the world’s biggest events has prepared me for the major stories, early hours and bad coffee that 3am starts demand – I’m excited and ready,” he said following the announcement.
“In all seriousness, this is a thrilling full circle moment for me. I’m beyond excited to return to the Sunrise family and to keep telling the stories that matter most to Australians.
“Mon is the most talented, generous, hilarious and wickedly smart person to work with and I look forward to riding her coattails until the bosses notice,” he continued. “Aussies lead busy lives, so to be invited into their homes on precious weekend mornings is a privilege not lost on me.”
Why did Matt Doran leave Weekend Sunrise?
Matt Doran’s announcement on air was both heartfelt and unexpected in November 2024. He explained that his decision to resign was not taken lightly but was made after careful consideration with his wife Kendall and their Italian greyhound, Murphy.
He spoke of the “incredible gratitude” he felt for his time on the show but also expressed a desire to shift his focus towards a new chapter, working on a crime docuseries in collaboration with a production company in LA. His final episode will air on December 8, marking the end of an era for the show.
Who are the top candidates to replace Matt Doran?
When Doran’s departure was first announced, speculation was rife about who would fill his role alongside Monique Wright. Many had their sights on James Tobin, Sam Mac and Larry Emdur as potential replacements.
Could James Tobin be the new Weekend Sunrise host?
James Tobin, a long-time weather presenter for Weekend Sunrise, was seen as a strong contender. He’s already proven himself as a capable live TV host and has won the respect of both the audience and Seven’s top executives.
“James has proven himself for many years,” an insider told our sister site, New Idea. “He’s charming, funny, and great at live TV…This could be a huge opportunity for James – and one that would open a lot of doors.”
What about Sam Mac? Is he ready for a bigger role?
Another potential candidate was Sam Mac, who has served as Sunrise‘s weather presenter since 2016. Mac is beloved by viewers for his fun and light-hearted style, as well as his undeniable chemistry with Wright.
Given that Mac is at a crossroads in his career, many believed the Weekend Sunrise hosting gig might offer him a fresh opportunity, especially as he balances his family life and a wedding to plan. Mac’s fans are hopeful that he’ll step up to this new challenge.
“Sam knows he can’t do the roving weather presenter role forever, not with a young family…so there is little doubt he would welcome the convenience of the Weekend Sunrise hosting job,” a source previously told New Idea.
Could Larry Emdur be the surprise pick?
Veteran TV personality Larry Emdur was also mentioned as a possible replacement. Known for his hosting roles on The Morning Show and The Chase Australia, Emdur brings decades of experience to the table. Fans believed his ability to connect with audiences and his extensive live TV background could make him an ideal choice to anchor the Weekend Sunrise program.
What’s next for Matt Doran?
While Doran’s departure from Weekend Sunrise marks the end of one chapter, he is far from leaving the Seven Network. He will continue to contribute to the network in a new role, focusing on crime documentaries. His departure also allows him more time to focus on his personal life, particularly his family, and to embrace new career opportunities.
