Tom Steinfort is rapidly emerging as a leading contender for a permanent co-hosting role on the popular breakfast program, Today, following a highly successful trial week alongside Samantha Armytage. His recent appearances have garnered widespread positive reactions from both the viewing public and network insiders, marking a promising shift in the show's dynamic. This comes as the network seeks to fill the prominent position left vacant by Karl Stefanovic’s departure, with Steinfort’s performance suggesting he could be the ideal long-term replacement.
The respected Nine Network journalist, at 41 years old, has made a significant impact since stepping into the co-host chair. During his test week with Samantha Armytage, the Today show experienced a notable surge in its viewership figures. For instance, national ratings on a recent Wednesday climbed to 756,000, a substantial increase from the previous week’s 696,000 when Michael Willesee Jr was on screen. This upward trend continued into Thursday, with 722,000 viewers tuning in, compared to 686,000 the week prior. These numbers indicate a strong positive response to Steinfort’s presence and potential to draw a larger audience.
Next week, Steinfort is scheduled to continue his co-hosting duties, although Samantha Armytage will be temporarily replaced by Today Extra co-host Sylvia Jeffreys. This move suggests that Nine is actively experimenting with different on-screen pairings to find the most effective chemistry for the show’s future. The network is clearly taking a measured approach in its decision-making process, ensuring that all potential candidates are thoroughly evaluated.
Industry observers have lauded Steinfort's contributions, with one insider remarking on the improved viewing experience and his strong work ethic. His history within the Nine Network is extensive, having served as a newsreader for Today during the Deborah Knight and Georgie Gardner era in 2019, and later gaining recognition as a prominent reporter for 60 Minutes. He also has prior experience co-hosting Weekend Today, making his return to breakfast television a familiar and comfortable fit.
Viewer sentiment has been overwhelmingly positive, with many expressing their desire for Steinfort to be offered the permanent role. Comments on social media highlight his charisma and suitability for the position, further bolstering his standing among the candidates. Despite the success of Steinfort’s trial, the search for Karl Stefanovic's ultimate replacement remains ongoing. Joel Dry, another veteran reporter, is also reportedly under consideration, indicating that Nine is exploring all available options.
While Tom Steinfort has undeniably strengthened his position with improved ratings and positive audience reception, the Today show still faces a significant challenge in the competitive breakfast television market. The rival Channel Seven program, Sunrise, continues to maintain a substantial lead, attracting over one million national viewers on both Wednesday and Thursday. This disparity underscores the ongoing task for Today to close the gap and solidify its audience base, regardless of who ultimately takes on the permanent co-hosting role.
Tom Steinfort's recent performance as a guest co-host on the Today show has not only garnered positive attention but also led to a noticeable increase in viewership. His background, coupled with strong audience and industry approval, positions him as a strong contender for the permanent co-hosting role. The network's continued testing of various pairings indicates a thorough evaluation process, but Steinfort's impact is already clear, offering a potential path forward for the program.