Matt Doran, one of Australia’s most well-known journalists, bid farewell to his role as the anchor for Weekend Sunrise during the show's latest episode, leaving behind both fans and colleagues teary-eyed.
After five years of hosting the breakfast show alongside Monique Wright, Doran announced his departure earlier this month. He expressed his desire to focus more on his family and take on new opportunities, igniting feelings of nostalgia and sadness among the viewers.
During the emotional send-off, Doran struggled to keep his composure as he thanked the production team, saying, "You guys know how much I love you. It might sound like something people say, but the crew... Em, Holly, Jade, Sarah... Thank you to every single person here. They do the most amazing job." A heartfelt farewell is exactly what viewers expected from the man who infused warmth and professionalism throughout his years on the show.
Emotional moments were showcased as his wife, Kendall Bora, wiped away tears during his goodbye speech. She remarked, "It’s emotional — seeing how much people care about him here. I’m excited to have him home (on weekends). But thanks for spending your weekend with him, too." The acknowledgment of Doran's impact was palpable throughout the studio as he prepared to take his next steps.
Doran reflected on his time on the show, sharing, "It’s something I’ve agonized over because it’s honest to say this is one of the best jobs on earth, but we think it's right — and at the right time — for our little family." He cited gratitude as his current state of mind, expressing appreciation for the laughs, lessons, and experiences he shared with his team and the show's viewers.
Specifically, he pointed out the significance of storytelling, indicating he feels drawn back to crime journalism and documentaries. He explained, "I came to the Seven Network eight years ago with a background in crime and documentaries, and I’m being pulled back in the direction again now." Doran feels privileged about the role of telling people’s intimate stories, emphasizing the importance of finding new angles for storytelling.
To highlight the significance of his departure, the network aired a compilation of his best moments. Tears flowed as Wright reflected, "Matt is here, and to be honest, we’re a little overwhelmed. This is a moment in history. How do you farewell such a living legend and absolute master?"
Meanwhile, the light-hearted moments of his last day were not lost on the audience. Doran couldn't resist injecting some fun during the live broadcast, seizing the chance to play pranks on his colleagues. At one point, he seized control of the autocue, retyping scripts and forcing Wright to read humorous compliments about him, sparking laughter across the studio.
His antics continued as he flitted around the studio, stopping by the hair and make-up department, and even the control room, claiming, "I’m saying hello and causing unmitigated chaos on the way out." Such levity exemplified the playful spirit Doran has brought to Weekend Sunrise over the years.
Viewers shared their emotional responses online following the broadcast. Many expressed sadness over his exit, stating things like, “Your farewell even had me with a few tears. Good luck Matt!” Another added, “Weekend Sunrise won't be the same without you, Matt, will miss you.”
While his departure leaves big shoes to fill, speculation about who could take his place has already begun. James Tobin, the show's weather presenter since 2009, is considered the frontrunner due to his long-standing association with Weekend Sunrise. Meanwhile, Sam Mac, currently the show’s weather announcer, might also be suitable for the role, as transitioning to the weekends would enable him to take on a slower pace of life with his growing family.
Apart from Tobin and Mac, there’s also buzz surrounding potential candidates like Larry Emdur, who hosts The Morning Show, and reporters Liam Tapper and David Woiwod, who have become recognizable faces on the network. The competition is tight as everyone speculates on who will fill the empty chair next to Monique Wright come the new year.
Though he departs from Weekend Sunrise, Doran remains with Channel Seven, hinting at returning to his roots by possibly engaging with crime stories and documentaries once again. He remains committed to exploring storytelling avenues and told the audience, "What a monstrous honour to be afforded a few hours of your precious time on your precious weekends. That is one thing I have never, ever taken for granted." His deep appreciation for the support and trust bestowed upon him by viewers and colleagues gave his farewell the emotional weight it deserved.
With the emotional sequence of his final send-off coupled with the change on the horizon for Weekend Sunrise, it marks the end of an era for Doran, but it also signals new beginnings for him—one built on family and storytelling, but always connected to the hearts of viewers who stood by him throughout his time on the show.