Samantha Armytage will join Sunrise on the final episode of David “Kochie” Koch for a special farewell with Mel Doyle
David “Kochie” Koch will present his final episode of Sunrise Friday along with his former co-hosts Samantha Armytage and Melissa Doyle.
According to TV Blackbox, the 61-year-old is getting a special farewell from his former buddies, who are performing live in the studio and wishing him well after 21 years on the job.
Kochie started Sunrise with Doyle, 53, from 2002 to 2013, and then together with Armytage, 46, from 2013 to 2021.
The news of Kochie’s departure comes a day after the veteran journalist clarified his much-hyped feud with Armytage in a conversation with The Kyle And Jackie O Show.
Kochie dismissed the feud rumors, declaring, “No, we didn’t find a bad ending.”
However, when pressed further by presenter Jackie “O” Henderson for her announcement following Sam’s departure from Sunrise, Kochie remained reticent.
David “Kochie” Koch, 61, (right) is joined by his former co-hosts Samantha Armytage, 46, (left) and Melissa Doyle, 53, as he presents his final episode of Sunrise on Friday. Pictured together on the show
Rather than answering directly, he pointed out that Sam had publicly expressed her desire to “get out of the media.”
“Don’t forget that Sam has said quite publicly that she wants to get out of the media and that scrutiny.” [altogether],’ he said.
Kochie said Sam sent him a “really nice message about the announcement” that he was stepping down as the show’s host.
Kochie launched Sunrise with Doyle (left) from 2002 to 2013, and then alongside Armytage from 2013 to 2021. Pictured in the early years of Sunrise
“She sent me a really nice message, as did ex-co-host Mel.” [Doyle]”Cochi said.
Rumors of a feud have circulated between Kochie and Armytage since she left top-rated breakfast show Seven, but have never been confirmed.
After Kochie announced his retirement, Armytage shared a throwback photo on Instagram of the couple posing together on set.
Kochie announced earlier this month that he was leaving Sunrise to pursue his own business and spend more time with his family. Pictured with co-host Natalie Barr
“I want to wish Kochie all the best in his future.” And to many well-deserved nights ahead,” she wrote.
Kochie announced earlier this month that he was leaving Sunrise to pursue his own business and spend more time with his family.
He will be replaced by former Olympic sprinter Matt Shirvington, 44, who has been in the starting blocks as Sydney’s weekend sports presenter for the past two years.
Shirvo was slated for the job back in 2020 when he joined Seven’s Olympics coverage team – a role he performed well at the postponed 2021 games and which inevitably earned him his ‘host stripes’.
He’s also made a name for himself with hosting roles on the mini-golf shows Holey Moley and Ultimate Tag, which while it wasn’t a ratings success, was further proof that he had what it took, a big format to master.
After Friday, Shirvo will begin the daily 3am wake-up call — one of several factors that ultimately led to Kochie’s decision to step down after 21 years.
Matt Shirvington (right) will join Natalie Barr Kochie as the new co-host of Sunrise