Presenter and journalist, Patricia Karvelas, has today been announced as the new host of ABC’s RN Breakfast program, replacing Fran Kelly.
According to The Australian, Karvelas’ appointment was widely tipped within the media industry for weeks once Kelly revealed on October 17 she was stepping down from her role after 17 years.
Karvelas is the current host of RN Drive and will move to the breakfast timeslot in 2022.
READ MORE: ABC’s Patricia Karvelas opens up about difficult childhood and entering the field of journalism.
“I look forward to setting the national agenda every weekday morning and providing the conversations and interviews that will keep ABC audiences well-informed of the issues that affect them,” Karvelas said in a statement after the announcement.
“I have huge shoes to fill.”
Fans of Karvelas have been overjoyed at the news on social media, prompting the journalist to thank them for their support.
Kelly also congratulated Karvelas on her appointment.
“Patricia is a natural fit for RN Breakfast,” she said. “I will exit on Thursday knowing my beloved RN Breakfast is in great hands.”
Karvelas and Kelly will continue to work together on The Party Room podcast, where they discuss news and events from Parliament House in Canberra.