Sunrise star drops surprising bombshell live on-air

Olivia Lambert
Updated ·2-min read

Sunrise showbiz correspondent Nelson Aspen has shocked viewers as he quit live on-air after working more than 19 years at the breakfast program.

Appearing on the show on Friday for his regular entertainment segment, Nelson said he was giving his two weeks notice.

"After 19 and a half years with Sunrise, which Nat and I can identify with how long that is ... I am giving you my two weeks notice, I don't want it to be too much of a stretch. I'm giving you two weeks," he said.

Nelson announced he would be stepping down from his role to finish up his new book, Your Home Is Your Castle, which comes out in September.

Sunrise host Nat Barr and Nelson Aspen.
Sunrise host Nat Barr told Nelson Aspen he would be missed. Source: Sunrise

"I'm going to show you how to either make your new home or bloom where you've already planted," he said.

He then said he would be doing a book tour and visits to some Australian cities.

"And in the meantime, you have me for two more weeks and I'm always on social media," he said.

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Nelson added they would be having a farewell on July 15, which will include a look back at his time on the program.

Sunrise host Natalie Barr expressed her sadness over the entertainment veteran's decision.

"Nelson, it has been a wonderful ride, we are going to miss you, but this is not goodbye, because we've got two weeks to say that," she said.

"Just so long," Nelson responded.

It is not yet known who is tipped to take over Nelson's showbiz gig.

Nelson is a five-time Publicists Guild of America nominee and was awarded International Media Journalist of the Year in 2020.

Posting on Twitter following the announcement, Nelson said it was "bittersweet".

Fans also expressed sadness they would no longer be seeing Nelson in their lounge rooms.

"You are simply the best Nelson, Australia really does love you," one wrote.

"One of the few reasons I watched Sunrise. We’ll miss you Nelson. Best of luck [with] your next adventure," another said.

"I’ve watched you the entire 19 and a half years! I’m saddened to hear you’re leaving but wish you nothing but happiness and success in your next chapter," a third added.

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