Family and friends of Nathan Templeton and the Channel Seven network are devastated following news of the TV star’s sudden death.
Templeton suffered a medical episode and died on Monday afternoon at the age of 44 while on a hiking trail near the Barwon River in Geelong, leaving behind his wife Kate and their two young sons Jack and James.
Victoria Police say his body was found in a park, believed to be Zillah Crawcour Park, near his home in Geelong about 2.30pm on Monday.
“The death is not being treated as suspicious at this stage,” a police spokesman said.
It is not yet clear what type of medical episode Templeton suffered and a report is being prepared for the coroner.
Family and friends of Nathan Templeton and the Channel Seven network are devastated following news of the TV star’s sudden death
Ny Breaking Australia understands Templeton has long struggled with personal issues, including depression, and has received support.
Just a few days before his death, Templeton had shared photos on Instagram of himself and his two young sons eating chocolate eggs on Easter morning.
“Favorite morning of the year,” he captioned the series of family photos.
His family shared a statement following his death, writing: “Our hearts are broken for an adoring father and wonderful friend who will be missed by many.”
Respected Channel Seven presenter Ann Sanders announced Templeton’s death during the 11.30am news bulletin on Wednesday.
Sanders remained calm as she delivered the sad news during the live broadcast.
“We extend our deepest condolences to his family and friends who remember Nathan as an admiring father and a wonderful friend,” she said.
Edwina Bartholomew, 40, was one of the first Sunrise stars to share a tribute to her colleague Nathan Templeton, 44, on Wednesday after tragic news emerged of his death. Both pictured with Sunrise co-stars Samantha Armytage and Natalie Barr
Bartholomew shared her grief and condolences on Instagram following his passing, as she revealed what she loved most about her fellow reporter
Templeton celebrated Easter with his family just days before he sadly passed away
Templeton has worked for Seven for more than 12 years, including as a Melbourne correspondent for the breakfast show Sunrise and in the sports department.
However, he had not been on Sunrise since late 2022 and was working behind the scenes last year.
Channel Seven’s sports director Lewis Martin emailed the newsroom on Wednesday morning to inform staff of Templeton’s death.
“The tragic news of Nathan’s death has left all of us at Seven deeply saddened,” the internal message said.
“Nathan was a respected journalist whose passion for storytelling was evident throughout his years as a reporter for Sunrise, 7News and multiple Olympic Games.”
Mr Martin said Templeton was “much loved across the network” and “across Australia” for his coverage of major sporting events.
“Our deepest condolences go out to his family, especially his two young sons at this difficult time,” he continued.
“If you are affected by this news, you are not alone. Don’t hesitate to reach out to a friend, colleague or your manager.’
Fellow Sunrise reporter Edwina Bartholomew, 40, shared her grief and condolences on Instagram following his passing, as she revealed what she loved most about her fellow reporter.
‘That’s how I’ll remember Nathan. His hoarse voice. His intense passion for all things sports, especially his poolside interviews,” she wrote.
“He had a knack for getting the best out of athletes, even when they were disappointed in their own performance.”