Weekend Today welcomes new co-host to the team
The Today team has kicked off 2026 with a bang, and this morning we welcome a new member to the family.
Michael Atkinson already has a stellar career as a sports reporter for Nine and Stan Sport, bringing that skill and attention to detail to his new role as Weekend Today co-host.
The 37-year-old father-of-two filled in alongside Alison Piotrowski and Lizzie Pearl earlier this year, but now it's official.
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Michael Atkinson joins Alison Piotrowski (L) and Lizzie Pearl (R) as Weekend Today co-host. Today
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"We're a long way from the little kid from Quilpie, who was thinking he was probably going to grow up to be a bull rider at one point," Michael told Karl and Sarah.
"Well, then I got on a potty calf at the age of eight and cried so that career was off the table, but there was never any thought that I would end up here - it's funny where life can take you."
Michael revealed his young son, Teddy, is not impressed with his new role as Weekend Today co-host, telling dad he would prefer he coach his junior cricket team on Saturdays and Sundays instead.
That little fella from Quilpie has come a long way. Michael Atkinson/Supplied
But while Teddy may not be impressed, Michael's new co-hosts are excited to have him join the team.
"Atko has slipped right in over summer, he's been seamless, he is just a sports guru, so he can't wait to bring his expertise to the desk," Alison said.
"And he's also a lot fun, which is what we need on weekends because we're a lot of fun too."
You can send Michael your well wishes on his new role here
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