Nathan Templeton’s family and friends, along with broadcaster Channel Seven, were left devastated after news of the TV star’s sudden death.
Templeton suffered a medical episode and died aged 44 on Monday afternoon while walking on a trail near the Barwon River in Geelong, leaving behind his wife Kate and two young sons, Jack and James.
Victoria Police say her body was found in a park, believed to be Zillah Crawcour Park, near her home in Geelong, about 2.30pm on Monday.
“The death is not considered suspicious at this time,” a police spokesperson 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 along with Channel Seven were devastated after news of the TV star’s sudden death.
Daily Mail Australia understands Templeton had been dealing with long-standing personal issues, including depression, and had been receiving support.
A few days before his death, Templeton had shared photos on Instagram of himself and his two young children eating chocolate eggs on Easter morning.
“Favorite morning of the year,” she 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 network’s 11.30am news bulletin on Wednesday.
Sanders maintained his composure as he delivered the sad news during the live broadcast.
“We send our deepest condolences to his family and friends who remember Nathan as a doting father and wonderful friend,” he said.
Edwina Bartholomew, 40, was among the first Sunrise stars to share a tribute to her colleague Nathan Templeton, 44, on Wednesday, after the tragic news of his death broke. Both pictured with Sunrise co-stars Samantha Armytage and Natalie Barr.
Bartholomew shared his grief and condolences on Instagram following his passing, while revealing what he loved most about his fellow reporter.
Templeton celebrated Easter with his family just days before his sad passing.
Templeton had worked for Seven for more than 12 years, including as Melbourne correspondent for its morning show Sunrise, and in its sports department.
However, he had not been on air at Sunrise since late 2022 and was working in a behind-the-scenes role last year.
Channel Seven managing director of sport Lewis Martin emailed the newsroom on Wednesday morning informing staff of Templeton’s death.
“The tragic news of Nathan’s death has left all of us at Seven deeply saddened,” the internal message read.
“Nathan was a respected journalist whose passion for telling stories was evident in all his years reporting for Sunrise, 7News and multiple Olympic Games.”
Martin said Templeton was “well-liked across the network” and “throughout Australia” for his coverage of major sporting events.
“Our deepest condolences go out to his family, especially his two young children during this difficult time,” he continued.
‘If this news affects you, you are not alone. Don’t hesitate to reach out to a friend, colleague or his manager.’
Fellow Sunrise reporter Edwina Bartholomew, 40, shared her grief and condolences on Instagram following his passing, while revealing what she loved most about her fellow reporter.
‘This is how I will remember Nathan. His voice is hoarse from him. “His intense passion for everything related to sports, especially interviewing him poolside,” he wrote.
“He had a knack for bringing out the best in athletes, even when they were disappointed in their own performance.”