Sunrise's new host revealed: TV insider spills on who is set to replace David Koch

It’s one of the most coveted jobs on TV, with Kochie’s Sunrise job now up for grabs. And according to reports, Channel Seven bosses have decided a familiar face will take over from the 67-year-old.

Daily Mail Australia reports that former Olympian Matt Shirvington will be announced as Kochie’s replacement on June 5th, according to Channel Seven insiders.

The sports star was a massive hit with viewers when he filled in for Kochie when he was on leave for six weeks last year.

Seven network executives were reportedly stunned by how natural the Olympian was in the role.

Matt currently co-hosts Sunrise on Fridays instead of Kochie, and The Australian reports that he has ‘the backing’ of Seven's top executives.

The publication reports that while Weekend Sunrise star Matt Doran was originally supposed to be Kochie’s successor, Shrivington has now become the ‘chosen stand-in’ whenever Kochie is away.

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According to Daily Mail, Kochie has given Shirvington his blessing.

“David believes Matt is a great fit and thinks he will do a fantastic job,” an insider told the publication.

“He's been filling in for David for a few years now and has earned his stripes. Viewers like him and he is very well-regarded internally so it's a natural step up for him.”

After Kochie announced his retirement on Monday, reports initially began to swirl about whether or not Channel Seven’s new talent, Dr Chris Brown, would take on the huge job.

In February, an insider revealed that Chris’ shock career decision to leave Channel 10 could have been part of a long-term plan. According to New Idea, the Bondi Vet star had his eyes firmly set on Kochie's job when he decided to make the move.

“Chris would be wanting the ‘holy grail’ of plum roles — which has to be Kochie’s Sunrise gig!” the source said.

“Chris could become a fill-in host until the time comes to make it permanent. Can you imagine how great he and Nat [Barr] would be together on screen?!”

In a chat with Triple M's Mick & MG yesterday, Chris laughed off the reports but refused to deny that he would be stepping into Kochie’s shoes.

“Kochie's had a very successful career and I think the focus should be on Kochie right now,” he said.

Kochie quits Sunrise

Kochie shocked viewers on Monday morning when he tearfully revealed he would be hanging up his boots at the Sunrise desk

In a statement released to media at the same time as he made the announcement on-air, Kochie said: “I have loved every single minute of my time at Sunrise, and I'm incredibly proud of what we've achieved over the last 21 years. I've been privileged to experience so many adventures, to meet so many incredible people and to cover so many moments of history in the making. It really is the world's best job.

“What I'll miss most is working with the amazing Sunrise team, especially Nat, Beretta and Dave Walters who have been with me for virtually the entire time on the show. I reckon I've spent more time with them than my family and it has been an utter joy. I'll miss the Sunrise viewers who have energised me every single day.

“I've also appreciated the support of the Seven Network, from the Chairman down, for allowing me to be myself, for their understanding when I've stuffed up – which is more often than I'd like to admit – and for their constant encouragement and respect,” he said.

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