It’s finally been confirmed that David Genat is officially taking over from Jonathan LaPaglia as the host of Australian Survivor.
Ever since Jonathan’s departure was confirmed in June, rumours have swirled that David would be stepping into the role. The news was finally made official on August 18, when David and Survivor announced it in a joint post on Instagram — just after his elimination from Survivor: Australia v The World.
“Filming is underway in the wilds of Samoa for the 12th season of Australian Survivor, where 10 is thrilled to confirm the ‘Golden God’ will be at the helm, commentating every challenge and tribal council as castaways battle it out for the title of Sole Survivor in Australian Survivor: Redemption, coming in 2026,” read a social media post by Channel 10.
During David’s Australia v The World elimination, he announced that he was retiring from playing Australian Survivor at Tribal Council, leading viewers to question if he knew he’d be stepping into the hosting role while filming the season.
While it’s not clear whether David was already in talks with Channel 10, Jonathan’s latest Instagram post suggests that he, at least, wasn’t aware of the switch-up.
“Damn DAVID! If I’d known, I could have just handed you the snuffer like an Olympic relay. Oh well. Good luck out there brother. Stay Gold Ponyboy! (Ps Who knew my sign off line for you was actually a message for me?😂),” Jonathan wrote, referring to him telling David “Golden God out” as he exited Tribal.
David responded to Jonathan’s post thanking him for the path he created as the host of Australian Survivor for the last eleven years.
“I stand on the shoulders of giants, thank you for what you gave to this show. Nobody can do it like you J,” he commented.
Jonathan volleyed back: “As I’m sure you’ve figured out by now, it’s a tough gig. Wishing you the best!”
Australia v The World cast react to David Genat’s Australian Survivor hosting gig news
Following the official announcement that David will take over as host of Australian Survivor, the Australia v The World cast flooded Instagram with congratulatory messages.
“David is a [true] lover of the game. He will do a great job as he understands what makes the game tick. Great news! Loved JLP [Jonathan LaPaglia], but an awesome replacement in the GG [Golden God]. Congrats,” Janine Allis commented on an announcement by Channel 10.
“This will be epic! Now we get to see the Golden God every season,” eliminated South African winner Rob Bentele wrote.
David’s former Deal or No Deal Island allie and current Australia v The World contestant, Parvati Shallow, wrote, “Game changer in every way.”
Shonee Bowtell pointed out David’s comment about retiring from Australian Survivor. “So by ‘retiring’ you meant getting a promotion!!!!! Congrats. Can’t wait to watch,” she commented on David’s announcement post.
Meanwhile, Luke Toki poked fun at David’s unusually covered-up look. “Just don’t laugh when you have to snuff someone’s torch and you will be fine haha, but seriously, congratulations [David], cut the sleeves off that shirt too.”
Survivor: Australia v The World airs at 7pm on Sundays, and 7:30pm on Mondays and Tuesdays on Channel 10 and 10Play.
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