Alex Cullen will return to the Seven Network, where he will report and present across various 7NEWS programs and special projects.
Earlier this year, Cullen departed Nine’s “Today” show in a blaze of controversy after accepting $50,000 from billionaire Adrian Portelli in exchange for helping to rebrand him on air. He was initially stood down by the network before departing entirely.
He addressed the scandal for the first time on Sunday, telling the Herald Sun it was “the toughest, hardest week of my career by a country mile,” recalling being “in the eye of the storm” when the story broke. “It was a silly mistake, one I should have thought through,” Cullen said. “I can’t go back and change any of it. But I have a chance now to rewrite the next chapter.”
Cullen previously worked at Seven for 13 years, beginning as a young reporter with 7NEWS Perth, before moving on to Sydney’s newsroom, “Sunrise” and “Sunday Night.”
“It’s incredibly exciting to be coming back to Seven,” Cullen said of his new role. “In many ways, it feels like coming home. There are familiar faces here I’ve known and worked with for more than 20 years, and that kind of support means everything. I’m looking forward to reconnecting with audiences and getting back to what I love: telling real stories that matter.”
Seven’s Director of News and Current Affairs, Ray Kuka, welcomed Cullen’s return. “We’re excited to welcome Alex back into the fold. He’s one of the nicest guys in television – a country boy with a strong work ethic who cares about the viewers, his colleagues and his family,” Kuka said.
“He’s joining us for a number of projects, but his versatility is one of his greatest strengths. Alex isn’t just a sports presenter; he’s a sharp journalist and a compelling host.”
Cullen’s move to Melbourne will also see him expand into radio. He has joined GOLD104.3’s “The Christian O’Connell Show” as the resident sports expert.
More details about his new television projects will be announced soon. Cullen’s appointment comes as Seven says it is delivering strong ratings growth in Melbourne across both news and sport.