Brenton Ragless: 6 things to know about the man tipped to replace Karl Stefanovic

It was confirmed this week that Karl Stefanovic would not be returning to co-host TODAY in 2019.

In a statement about the decision that was shared on Wednesday, Nine's Director of News and Current Affairs, Darren Wick, said, "Nine and Karl Stefanovic have agreed it is time for him to step off the TODAY show. Karl remains on contract with the network and will continue to host This Time Next Year, which records in February."

Wick continued: "For over 14 years Karl has been at the centre of the TODAY show, bringing his unique personality and perspective to the day's news and current affairs. An announcement on the new line up and format of the TODAY show will be made in the coming weeks."

There is growing speculation as to who will replace Stefanovic as the frontman of TODAY, and most of the reports are circling back to one man: Brenton Ragless.

Ragless is currently filling in for Stefanovic anyway (with Deb Knight keeping Georgie Gardner's seat warm over the summer break), so could a full-time transition be on the cards?

Here's what you need to know about the man hotly tipped to replace Karl.

Who is Brenton Ragless?

Brenton Ragless is Nine's newsreader in Adelaide and presents the 6pm one-hour Bulletin alongside fellow South Australian Kate Collins.

He moved to the Nine News Adelaide news desk in 2014 after being a weather presenter.

"I grew up watching Nine News with the legendary Kevin Crease and Rob Kelvin, and I'm honoured to be at the news desk presenting you all of the local and national stories as they unfold," he said of his appointment. "There's a new momentum and vibrancy in Adelaide, with the Oval and the Medical Research Centre, and the transformation of this city. In this time and place, it is a great opportunity to be bringing the news to Adelaide each weeknight."

Where is Brenton Ragless from?

Ragless was born in Blackwood, South Australia.

How old is Brenton Ragless?

Ragless is 42.

What is Brenton Ragless' family like?

Ragless has been married to his wife Hayley since 2008 and they have two sons: Edan and James.

What are Brenton Ragless' other interests?

Aside from news and presenting, Ragless is a passionate supporter of many South Australian charities, particularly the efforts of firefighters -- his interest with the fire service started when he was a 5-year-old and accompanied his father to the Eden Hills CFS Brigade.

He is an ambassador for the Country Fire Service, Professional Firefighters Foundation, 'Watch Around Water' safety initiative, Asthma Foundation, Phoenix Society, Junction Australia, Cancer Council Sunsmart Initiative, Masters Swimming and the SA State Aquatic and Leisure Centre.

He is also a keen cyclist and swimmer, and swam competitively as a kid until he had a serious hip injury at age 14.

How to follow Brenton Ragless on social media:

Instagram: @brentonragless

Twitter: @BrentonRagless