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Robert Irwin drops surprise in planned TV return

Source: Instagram

Soaring Aussie star Robert Irwin has confirmed his next TV gig – and it might not be what viewers quite expected.

Irwin has just been confirmed as part of the new hosting line-up for a rebooted Australian Ninja Warrior when it returns to Network Ten next year.

“Been a fan of this show for so long, now I get to host it,” Irwin wrote on Instagram late on Sunday.

He will share hosting duties with Ten presenter Georgie Tunny and The Amazing Race Australia host Beau Ryan.

The announcement puts paid to rumours that Irwin might replace the departed Karl Stefanovic on Nine’s Today show or follow I’m A Celebrity … Get Me Out Of Here! – the show he has hosted for two seasons – to Seven.

It is just the latest in a string of high-profile TV gigs for Irwin. Next month he will host the Logies, while also being in the running for the Gold Logie alongside his former I’m A Celeb co-host Julia Morris.

Irwin is also working on Disney’s US Dancing with the Stars: The Next Pro spin-off show featuring professional dancers. Irwin won the US DWTS title last year, following in the twinkling toes of sister Bindi.

The son of the late Crocodile Hunter, Steve Irwin, has also been the face of multiple advertising campaigns.

robert irwin

Robert Irwin and his Ninja Warrior co-hosts Georgie Tunny and Beau Ryan. Photo: Instagram

Elsewhere, the return of Ninja Warrior does represent a version of musical chairs in Australian TV. The show will air on Ten after previously running on Nine from 2017-2022.

“We’re incredibly proud to have partnered in bringing this new era of Australian Ninja Warrior to life,” said Lisa Squillace, head of WPP Motion Entertainment AUNZ.

“From the outset, our focus was on helping meaningful partnership opportunities that would enhance the experience for audiences, brands and the network.

“It’s a powerful format with broad cultural appeal, and we’ve been thrilled to work alongside the teams at Network 10, Endemol Shine Australia and our brand partners to help unlock its full potential as it returns for a new generation of viewers.”

In an official statement, Irwin said his new role would be “such an incredible adventure”.

“Not only are we watching the pinnacle of athleticism, but we also get to see how dedication, courage and hard work can create heroes on the course. We see passionate people discovering they’re capable of more than they ever imagined,” he said.

“Whether you’re out in the bush or on the course, it’s that same spirit of enthusiasm and commitment that inspires me every day and I can’t wait to cheer every competitor across the finish line.”

“My cohosts will have the full-time job of keeping me from attempting the course myself.”

Tunny said she loved the idea that every Ninja Warrior competitor arrived with a story.

“It’s not just about conquering the course; it’s about determination, resilience, and the people who inspire us to keep showing up, no matter what the challenge. I’m thrilled to be part of sharing those moments with audiences across Australia,” she said.

Ryan, a former Ninja Warrior competitor, said he could vouch for the toughness of courses on the show.

“Watching these athletes tackling it is inspiring and terrifying and trust me, after seeing what they can do, I won’t be volunteering to have a crack myself,” he said.

“I’m pumped to be along for the ride and can’t wait for everyone at home to experience it with us.”

Casting for Ten’s Australian Ninja Warrior is open now.

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