Channel 10 star joins network's mass exodus: 'New chapter'

Channel 10 news presenter Natasha Exelby is the next star to leave the network after a number of big names recently announced they have quit.

The Ten News First anchor shared the news on her Instagram she would be finishing up with the network on Friday after 20 years in journalism.

"Working in more than 50 countries and meeting extraordinary people has been the greatest privilege of my life so far," she said.

"I somehow survived a military coup while living in Turkey where my house was sprayed with bullets. Reporting from nations like Afghanistan, Syria and Iraq …. learning their stories of torture and loss, has taught me humility, and the breathtaking brilliance of humanity – even when unimaginable evil strikes."

She added during her decades-long career she had joined refugees on a "harrowing" journey from the Middle East to Europe and was proud to be Australian after meeting people who had been struck by tragedies like bushfires and floods.

"Covering the Tokyo Olympics has been a true highlight. What a pleasure to report on happy news after two years of Covid chaos!" she said.

"I've spent half of my career at Ten and so many colleagues have become friends and even family ... and will be forever. But it's time for the next chapter! (Details after the break ... Stay tuned).

"But for now, it's good night and good luck! Stay classy Australia! I'll be back."

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During her time at Channel 10, the award-winning journalist also appeared on the network's popular reality TV show I'm a Celebrity ... Get Me Out of Here!.

The reality TV show's host Dr Chris Brown - who recently signed a deal with Channel 7 and will leave Channel 10 in July – congratulated Natasha on Instagram.

"You're one of the true delights of this business. Smart and funny. A dangerous combination in any newsroom ... or jungle. I can't wait to see what's next," he wrote.

The Great Australian Bake Off judge Darren Purchese also said the newsreader was "awesome".

"You will be missed by viewers and Ten for sure," he said.

Natasha's news comes after Chris Brown's announcement and the exit of Carrie Bickmore, Peter Helliar and Lisa Wilkinson from The Project.

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