Sunrise cast shakeup: The hosts tipped to take over when Kochie retires

He's been on our screens on Seven's Sunrise for almost 20 years, so it's no wonder David 'Kochie' Koch has a place in Aussie TV viewers' hearts.

But, as he turns 66 next year and his contract with the network is also reaching an end, could Kochie retire altogether?

"I've got another year on my contract [at Channel 7]. We'll see how we go next year," he said when asked in a recent interview with Woman's Day.

"[I'll stay] while I'm still enjoying it and while viewers want me to do it.

"They're the ultimate boss."

If he does take a break, he won't be short of things to do, with seven grandchildren he and wife Libby love spending time with.

So who could be in line to take over if Kochie vacates the co-hosting seat at Sunrise?

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Matt Doran

His latest press hasn't been ideal since he botched his opportunity to interview Adele for Sunrise after confessing to her he hadn't heard her new album.

However, Aussies love a redemption story.

"To Adele I say: 'I’d never have knowingly disrespected you by deliberately not listening to your work'," he apologised on air.

"I’m so sorry.

"I also apologise to Adele’s Australian fans - who through my error have been denied this interview and the insight into her character."

With this heartfelt apology and time off after Christmas, the audience may be ready to forgive and forget too.

Grant Denyer

Gold Logie winning presenter Grant Denyer has spent time with Channel 7 and Channel 10.

He was Sunrise weather presenter from 2004–2006 and from 2010–2013, before Channel 10 lured him to Family Feud.

However his latest show Celebrity Name Game was not renewed in 2021.

Given his popularity and his Gold Logie win in 2018, he could be a well-liked replacement for Kochie.

Larry Emdur

Could former Weekend Sunrise presenter Larry Emdur be convinced to wake up earlier to take over from Kochie, instead of following on from him on The Morning Show?

Sunrise is certainly the more popular show in terms of ratings, which may be enough to bring Larry across.

"Channel 7’s golden boy, Larry, is the short-odd favourite, especially after putting him in The Chase to replace Andrew [O’Keefe] – he can do no wrong," a source told New Idea.

Michael Usher

When Kochie went to four days a week at Sunrise, West Australian Michael Usher took over his hosting duties on Fridays.

He has also had experience with the competition, filling on Today in 2011 when Karl Stefanovic was on holiday.

"Kochie is pushing hard for his favourite candidate to take over the reins, and that’s Michael," a New Idea insider revealed.

But is it all sewn up?

Only time will tell.

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