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Deborah Knight replaces Karl Stefanovic as Today host

Deborah Knight has been confirmed as Karl Stefanovic’s replacement on Today.

The 46-year-old will front Channel Nine’s breakfast television show alongside current host Georgie Gardner, while Tom Steinfort will replace Sylvia Jeffreys as Today newsreader.

The new hosting team will kick off their duties from January 14, and the TV network couldn’t be more confident about the on-air shakeup.

Deborah Knight (L) will be joining Georgie Gardner (R) as a Today host in 2019. Photo: Instagram
Deborah Knight (L) will be joining Georgie Gardner (R) as a Today host in 2019. Photo: Instagram

“Georgie Gardner, Deb Knight and Tom Steinfort will spearhead an energised and exciting TODAY Show in 2019,” said Darren Wick, Nine’s Director of News and Current Affairs.

“We’ve brought together a team from within the Nine family who are already well-known, trusted and liked by Australian viewers.”

Having two women fronting the show may very well be guided by the network’s aim to increase its female audience.

“Georgie has established herself as one of the most respected presenters on television. Our viewers adore her. What you see is what you get. Authentic, caring and compassionate,” said Wick.

Last month Karl Stefanovic was dumped from Today. Photo: Channel Nine
Last month Karl Stefanovic was dumped from Today. Photo: Channel Nine

“Deb Knight is hands-down one of the best interviewers in the country. An incredibly hard-worker, she cuts to the chase with every conversation.

“And Tom Steinfort is among the best of a new breed of reporters. His career has taken him from the Melbourne newsroom to A Current Affair, European correspondent for Nine News and onto 60 Minutes.

“TODAY in 2019 has a new focus. But the show will retain everything that’s made it an institution for four decades. The perfect mix to start your day – news, information you can use and fun.”

Tom Steinfort joins the team as newsreader. Photo: Channel Nine
Tom Steinfort joins the team as newsreader. Photo: Channel Nine

Further changes at the network include previously announced new appointment, Brooke Boney as entertainment reporter, while Weekend Today will see David Campbell host alongside Allison Langdon, Jayne Azzopardi and Clint Stanaway.

As for Today Extra which airs straight after the brekkie show, David Campbell will continue hosting with Sonia Kruger for three days a week, while Richard Wilkinson will join Sonia on Thursdays and Fridays.

Brooke Boney is the new entertainment reporter. Photo: SBS
Brooke Boney is the new entertainment reporter. Photo: SBS

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