David Koch will host his final edition of “Sunrise” on Channel 7 on Friday, June 9.
The breakfast TV personality has been a part of the show for over 21 years alongside co-hosts including Melissa Doyle, Samantha Armytage and now Natalie Barr.
The Seven Network said viewers will be able to share in the farewell celebrations, and noted “he will remain a valued part of the “Sunrise” family and the broader Seven Network”.
A replacement has already been secured, with the announcement coming on Monday, June 5 during Koch’s final week.
Koch said he has loved every single minute of his time with the program – which has included over 16,000 hours of live TV and 50,000 interviews – and is proud of what’s been achieved over the past 21 years.
“I’ve been privileged to experience so many adventures, to meet so many incredible people and to cover so many moments of history in the making. It really is the world’s best job,” he said.
“What I’ll miss most is working with the amazing Sunrise team, especially Nat, Beretts and Dave Walters who have been with me for virtually the entire time on the show. I reckon I’ve spent more time with them than my family and it has been an utter joy. I’ll miss the “Sunrise” viewers who have energised me every single day.
“I’ve also appreciated the support of the Seven Network, from the chairman down, for allowing me to be myself, for their understanding when I’ve stuffed up – which is more often than I’d like to admit – and for their constant encouragement and respect.”
He said he would be spending more time with his family, as well as focusing on his family businesses Pinstripe Media and the Ausbiz business channel.
Kerry Stokes, Seven West Media chairman, said: “David has played a central part in turning around the fortunes of the Seven Network over the past two decades to where we continue to dominate the ratings from dawn with Sunrise, a program he has been with since October 2002.
“I will personally miss David, as he is a thorough professional and a wonderful human being, particularly in the manner he has mentored so many Seven people. I wish David and his wife Libby the best after what has been a rigorous work schedule, which has also included many pro bono roles in the sports and charity arenas.”
James Warburton, CEO, added: “Kochie has been the king of breakfast TV for two decades, taking Sunrise to No. 1 and helping to keep it there year in, year out. It’s an extraordinary achievement, one that he should be very proud of. But all good things come to an end, and I admire and respect his decision to step away from “Sunrise” while he’s at the top of his game.
“Kochie is the ultimate team player and I’m going to miss seeing him on screen every morning. I wish him, Libby and the family all the very best for the future, and thank you from everyone at Seven.”