Weekend Sunrise host Andrew O'Keefe leaving after 12 years

After 12 years with Weekend Sunrise, Andrew O’Keefe has made the decision to step away from his hosting and reporting duties.

O’Keefe will continue his full-time role as host of Seven’s top-rating quiz show The Chase Australia, as well as focus on other projects with the network.

"The ideal job is doing work you love with people you love,” O’Keefe said. “And for 12 years it's been my great pleasure to work on one of the most lively and thoughtful shows on commercial television with some of the warmest, funniest and most committed people I know.

"Weekend Sunrise has truly been a family, though without the inheritance squabbles or TV-remote blame. Mon, Simon, Sally and the whole team behind the camera are beautiful friends. But as much as I love my WS family to bits, I think it's time to give the weekends back to my real family. There are many overdue camping trips and too many unseen soccer matches to catch up on. So, to all the beautiful people with whom it's been my profound pleasure to work, and to all the viewers who've been our friends for so long, thank you and adios. See you at the much more civilised hour of 5pm."

Sunrise executive producer Michael Pell said: "Andrew O’Keefe is Weekend Sunrise’s longest-serving host. Over more than a decade, Australians have woken up to his irreverent style. He’s made us laugh and he’s made us think. I thank Andrew for his enormous contribution and wish him well as he reclaims his own weekends. Andrew will always be a member of the Sunrise Family."

Seven’s director of news and public affairs Craig McPherson said: “Andrew has been instrumental in Weekend Sunrise’s dominance over many years. Few bring as much passion and energy to a presenting role. I wish him every success in his future endeavours.”