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Sunrise's David Koch makes major decision amid retirement rumours

Rachel Choy
Updated ·3-min read

Sunrise host David ‘Kochie’ Koch is planning to stay on the breakfast show for ‘at least two more years’.

Rumours have been swirling around his future plans, with whispers claiming he was close to retiring.

Natalie Barr and David 'Kochie' Koch on Sunrise
Sunrise's David 'Kochie' Koch isn't going anywhere. Photo: Seven

According to The Australian, Kochie was convinced to sign a two-year extension after meeting with Seven’s CEO James Warburton.

The publication reports that the presenter will host Sunrise until the end of 2024, but negotiated ‘greater flexibility’ as part of the new deal.

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The star admitted to the publication that he was close to leaving, before telling bosses that ‘more breaks from the show’ could convince him to stay.

Kochie is wanting more time to spend with family and on his other business ventures, such as Pinstripe Media and Ausbiz TV.

David 'Kochie' Koch with his family at his daughter's wedding
Kochie wants to spend more time with his family and on other ventures. Photo: Instagram/kochie_online

“After 20 years, I’ve felt I needed more flexibility in my life with my wife Libby and my business interests,” Kochie explained.

"So when I mentioned leaving to Seven, James very kindly asked me whether we could work together on a plan that I wanted, which also kept my connection to the network and my focus on Sunrise,” he added. “I love [Sunrise] dearly. So I’m really fortunate to have the best of all worlds.”

The Brekky Central host first joined the show after Chris Reason stepped down in 2002, and was a big part in the ratings jump for Seven.

Natalie Barr and David 'Kochie' Koch on Sunrise
Sunrise's David 'Kochie' Koch has hit back at scammers who are using his image. Photo: Seven

Kochie sparks exit rumours

This comes after fans were convinced that Kochie was preparing for an exit in early October.

The host shared on Instagram that he reached a whopping 20 years at Brekky Central and shared his 20 most ‘memorable’ moments to celebrate.

Along with photos with celebrities such as Tom Cruise, trips he’s taken for the show and times he’s worn some very strange outfits, he wrote a sweet caption.

“Thanks for having me Sunrise for the last 20 years. My most memorable moments (in no particular order); Anzac Day service on Kokoda Track, Climbing Kilimanjaro (twice) and getting lost on ascent night,” he began.

Listing his other highlights, he also included “Hosting Sunrise with Katy Perry”, “Landing on a glacier and standing on Antarctic Circle”, “Fronting INXS for one song”, and covering the “Queen lying in State in Westminster Hall”.

David Koch collage of 9 photos from his time on Sunrise
The Brekky Central host shared his most 'memorable' moments on Instagram. Photo: Instagram/kochie_online

While he didn’t confirm he was leaving the show, many fans were convinced that it was a farewell post.

“Good luck Kochie…enjoy your next adventures!” a fan wrote.

“Is he leaving?” another concerned fan commented.

“Time for a sea change,” a fan wrote on Facebook, while another added, “Time to go”.

His Sunrise colleagues made no mention of the potential exit, but were quick to congratulate Kochie on his incredible career.

“Outstanding! A real legend and great bloke! Thanks Kochie for all you do on and off the camera,” Sunrise sports presenter Mark Beretta wrote.

“Congratulations Kochie, a remarkable achievement! So lucky to work with you,” Sunrise producer Sean Flynn added.

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