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Nine’s controversial Today show enters the 2023 ratings war with a secret weapon as new co-host Sarah Abo prepares to replace Ally Langdon.
Sources within the ranks of Nine’s North Sydney studios say confidence surrounding the new combination of Abo and Karl Stefanovic is high due to one major factor – the imminent departure of Sunrise veteran David Koch.
Koch – who has personally overseen 20 years of ratings dominance for Seven’s breakfast show since he started in 2002 as a substitute, will begin winding down his workload in 2023 and will retire completely by the end of 2024.
It is clear that the popular TV veteran, who is regarded internally at Seven as the ‘backbone’ and ‘a powerhouse’ of Sunrise, has negotiated more flexibility in his schedule and will reduce his hours until his contract expires.
“After 20 years, I felt I needed more flexibility in my life with my wife Libby and my business interests,” Koch shared. The Australian in October.
David Koch (L) has begun to slowly phase out his hosting duties as he retires
Sarah Abo will sit next to Karl Stefanovic on Today in 2023
“So when I said I was leaving for Seven, (CEO) James (Warburton) asked me very nicely if we could work together on a plan I wanted, which would also keep me connected to the network and my focus on Sunrise.”
However, the prospect of a “Koch-free” future comes as a welcome relief to Nine, with network insiders saying Today may finally have a shot at the top spot for breakfast ratings thanks to “clear skies for the first time in 20 years.”
“Kochie’s departure represents a huge opportunity for today – there’s no denying that,” said a Nine insider.
“He’s a behemoth on breakfast TV. He’s sustained Sunrise’s dominance for two decades.
“The idea of a breakfast TV landscape without him gives Today clear air for the first time in 20 years and there’s a real sense of opportunity here.
“It means that Karl will now be the most experienced presenter on both shows… and that could appeal to viewers.”
“Kochie’s departure represents a huge opportunity for Today, there’s no denying that,” said a Nine insider
“The idea of a breakfast TV landscape without him gives Today clear skies for the first time in 20 years,” a Nine source says of Today
However, it’s critical that Abo and Stefanovic find the right chemistry, with producers saying they’re happy to give the new couple several months — even up to a year — to find their way.
‘In that phase you get an idea of whether it really works. But Koch’s departure will undoubtedly come to the fore as well.’
Koch’s reign has undoubtedly been a thorn in the side of Today, which failed to win a single ratings week in 2022.
In fact, Sunrise has all but butchered Today, winning every judging year since 2004 and every week in the subway market in five cities since 2018.
But while news of Koch’s retirement provides a welcome reprieve for Nine, his outgoing status is felt differently at Seven, where discussions about his heir to the throne are in full swing.
It’s clear that Matt Shirvington has long been anointed as Koch’s obvious Sunrise successor.
Matt Shirvington (R with co-host Natalie Barr) has long been anointed as Koch’s obvious Sunrise successor
Before moving to TV, Shirvington represented Australia at the 1998 Commonwealth Games and 2000 Sydney Olympics
However, insiders say there is some doubt that the young but likeable former athlete – who recently spent $11 million on a new home on Sydney’s North Shore – has what it takes to fill Koch’s considerable shoes.
Shirvington already fills the guest chair on Friday — which Koch has off — and filled in as Sunrise co-anchor in October while Kochie was on leave.
“Sunrise will be vulnerable without David, so a lot depends on what someone can bring as a replacement,” a Seven source said.
“David brings a lot to the network…not just ratings, but security, credibility and stability.
“He’s trustworthy and doesn’t believe in the TV gossip and BS. He just shows up and does his job.’
Contacted for comment, Sunrise EP Sarah Stinson said a decision on Koch’s pass would be made closer to his contract date.
“It’s been a huge 12 months for Sunrise, we’re super thankful for another rating gain,” Stinson told Daily Mail Australia.
The ink is still drying on Kochie’s new two-year contract. Other than that, no decisions have been made.’
Nine has been contacted for comment.