Some viewers have called Matt Doran’s latest appearance on Weekend Sunrise on Sunday “strange.”
The popular breakfast star did not present his farewell show, with Mark Beretta sitting on the sofa next to Monique Wright, and Matt relegated to wandering around the studio for a series of light-hearted segments.
He finally managed to sit on the couch for a final farewell during the last hour of the show.
The move has sparked speculation that the 41-year-old media veteran, who announced he was leaving the network last month, may have been “pushed out” rather than leaving on his own accord.
He was also not seen at the Weekend Sunrise desk on Saturday.
One viewer described Matt’s farewell, while surrounded by his longtime colleagues, including his regular Weekend Sunrise co-host Wright, as “definitely strange.”
Matt Doran’s latest appearance on Weekend Sunrise on Sunday has been branded “bizarre” by some viewers. (Pictured)
The popular breakfast star did not host the show and only made an appearance in the final hour. Pictured: A scene from Matt’s farewell show with Monique Wright (center)
And the move has sparked speculation on industry blog Media Spy that the 41-year-old reporter, who announced he was leaving the network last month, may have been “pushed out”.
“The early parts of the show were definitely strange, as was the general vibe that Seven gave off over the past few weeks, including the announcement,” the armchair critic wrote on the industry blog. media spy.
They continued: “I really hope it was Doran’s decision and that he received good support, especially knowing a lot of what he’s been through (openly).
“Bye Matt, hopefully you’ll feature prominently again on Aussie FTA one day, maybe even on Nine or Foxtel, as you’ve demonstrated both your serious professional side and your natural funny banter side on both Ten and Seven quite a bit success now.”
Another viewer said: ‘I imagine his contract came up and he just decided not to renew it.
“Possibly the 7th gave him a push not to renew, but I don’t think it’s as important as some think it is…
Meanwhile, some viewers appeared to take offense to the discussion surrounding Matt’s sudden departure from the troubled network.
“I really don’t understand the conspiracies surrounding Matt’s departure,” the viewer began.
“No one really knows and most likely will never know… I find it disgusting and disgusting that people here want to make a bigger deal out of this than it really is.”
Matt took on the role of roving reporter before signing off for the final time and explored various areas of the studio while Mark Beretta and Monique Wright hosted the show.
“To be honest, I think it’s a fair point of discussion,” another blog viewer responded.
‘The questions behind Matt’s departure are more than valid considering that just a few months ago there was a report that his position was being reviewed.
“Of course it could and probably is just a coincidence and the timing is what it is, but it’s certainly still a valid topic of discussion.”
‘Let’s also not forget that the network is also in cost-cutting mode, so laying off high-profile talent wouldn’t be out of the question either.
“The fact that he hasn’t appeared since the announcement, and especially today, for the last hour, will naturally make people wonder what has been going on behind the scenes.”
Matt ended his five years on Weekend Sunrise during an emotional live announcement at the end of the show late last month.
At one point, Matt manned the autocue station while his colleagues spoke directly into the camera. (Pictured)
The Seven star recently opened up about her struggle with depression on The Morning Show.
He said he will take the time to focus on family and pursue other opportunities.
The breakfast show host broke down in tears as he spoke about his friendship with his closest colleague as he told Seven viewers about his decision.
‘Mon, you’re not just a colleague, you’re my best friend and I’m going to miss you, any chance for a hug?’ said.
In September, when Matt appeared on Morning Sunrise to launch his latest book, Mental State, about Australia’s mental health system, he spoke bravely about his own struggle with depression.
—Do you think we’re getting better, doctor, by raising our hands like you did and saying, “I have an anxiety problem”? Matt asked Dr. Cross.
“I’ve also had huge problems with depression in recent years, but I think people are still afraid to come forward and say that.”
“It’s amazing that you say the more we talk about it, the better it is,” Dr. Cross said, praising Matt for speaking so openly about his depression on TV.
Matt has raised concerns in recent years after he mysteriously disappeared from work on two separate occasions.
In June, he was unable to make it to Seven studios to work on Weekend Sunrise.
A spokesperson for the network told Daily Mail Australia at the time that Matt was “on leave.”
A Channel Seven reporter has been tipped to replace Doran.
Seven’s US correspondent David Woiwod, who is based in Los Angeles, is likely to take on the co-host role alongside Monique Wright, according to news.com.au.