Sunrise fans baffled after Matt 'Shirvo' Shirvington misses first week on-air

After spending a few weeks off air enjoying time in Western Australia and Queensland over the holiday period, Sunrise host Nat Barr returned to the Channel Seven breakfast show last Monday.

She was joined by newsreader Edwina Bartholomew and sports reporter Mark Beretta, who temporarily took over as hosts during the Christmas break, although her co-host Matt ‘Shirvo’ Shirvington is yet to come back to Brekky Central.

Weekend Sunrise host Matt Doran has been temporarily filling in for the former athlete, leaving fans on social media to question when he will return.

“Where was Shirvo?” one person wrote, followed by another who asked, “Have I missed something? Where’s Shirvo!”.

In a statement to Yahoo Lifestyle, a Channel Seven spokesperson revealed that Matt will be returning on-air tomorrow.

“Shirvo has been on holidays and on assignment for Sunrise. He returns to Brekky Central on Wednesday,” they said.

RELATED:

• Sunrise host Katie Brown shares brutal reality of breakfast TV job: 'Crazy'

• Sunrise star Sam Mac announces engagement: 'There were tears'

• The Project host calls out Sunrise star Nat Barr's bizarre jab at Sam Mac

Sunrise viewers want more of Moran

Amidst Shirvo’s absence, fans have praised Matt Doran online and said they would love to see him on the show more regularly.

“Shirvo is a nice guy, but Matt is a much better presenter. More spontaneous, articulate and a great interview and reporter!” one person commented, while another replied, “Spot on! Couldn’t agree more”.

“Please keep Matt on during the week. Like a breath of fresh air,” a third remarked.

“Great to see Matt Doran on the desk again,” someone else shared, followed by a different user who added, “Go Matt! You and Mon [Wright] are the best in our household”.

“My family adore Mon and Matt D. They are both fun and intelligent people who convey the news with professionalism and compassion when needed, ask smart questions and also have a laugh when needed!” another fan wrote.

Shirvo's surprising career move

It was announced in November that Shirvo had been filming scenes for the popular soap Home and Away, with the scenes due to air later this year.

The father-of-three, who began co-hosting Sunrise in May, is involved in a top-secret storyline for the 2024 season and is believed to be playing himself.

“As a kid who grew up watching Home and Away, it was all a bit surreal to be in Summer Bay with Alf Stewart!" he told 7News.

“What a fun experience. The entire cast and crew were so welcoming and generous with acting tips and advice for this novice.”

Never miss a thing. Sign up to Yahoo Lifestyle’s daily newsletter.

Or if you have a story idea, email us at lifestyle.tips@yahooinc.com.