SUNRISE on the hunt for new host as BASIL ZEMPILAS steps aside

SUNRISE is on the hunt for a new host for its weekend edition, with reports emerging from within the network that Basil Zempilas is looking to scale back his commitment to the popular program.

While negotiations are continuing. TV Blackbox understands Basil Zempilas is expected to take on a more flexible guest presenter role on the breakfast program, rather than continuing with the regular Weekend Sunrise gig.

Zempilas is understood to be keen to focus on his Perth media commitments. The popular host presents the weeknight sports report for Seven News, and has a top-rating breakfast program on radio station 6PR.

Basil will also play a key role in the network’s coverage of the 2020 Tokyo Olympics.

Zempilas has been a regular presenter on Weekend Sunrise since early 2018. The past two years has seen him commuting between Perth and Sydney every weekend.

TV Blackbox understands Zempilas will scale-back his Weekend Sunrise commitment before the end of 2019, a replacement host is yet to be confirmed.

In a recent interview with The West Australian, the father of three admitted the hefty workload had proved challenging for his young family.

“There’s no doubt that Amy and my family, the three kids have sacrificed a lot for my career, all of it I suppose,”

“All of my children have been born in the time that I have been travelling away interstate. I’m very aware had it not been for their support and flexibility I wouldn’t be able to do the things that I’m doing.”

SEVEN has been approached for comment