After almost a decade of hosting Australian Survivor, Channel 10 has axed TV presenter Jonathan LaPaglia (JLP). He has been the main host of the series since 2016, leaving past contestants and fans devastated. Over 3,500 fans have already signed a change.org petition demanding he be reinstated as host, with the number growing daily.
“Jonathan LaPaglia has been an iconic part of Survivor Australia, bringing charisma, professionalism, and heartfelt dedication to fans across the nation. For several seasons, he has captivated viewers with his unique hosting style, engaging commentary, and unwavering passion for the game… we cannot allow this change to happen without voicing our strong support for JLP to remain the host of Survivor Australia,” the petition reads.
“When hosts are changed, shows frequently see a decline in audience engagement. Thus, maintaining JLP as the host is crucial to uphold the brand integrity and continuing success of Survivor Australia.”
Fans have flooded the petition page with comments about Channel 10’s “huge mistake”, with one calling JLP the “glue” that holds Australian Survivor together. “An appalling decision. If he is replaced, I don’t think I will watch the show because it will never be the same with someone else as the host and the show may fall apart. He needs to be saved,” they added.
“JLP is a core part of what makes Australian Survivor so special. His humour, confidence, and stellar narration set the tone for Survivor AU. Without him, the show risks losing that tone and digging itself into a deeper hole. Please bring back our boy!” another said.
“JLP has shown he is excellent at reading situations, showing compassion, and drawing conversations out of the players. His interactions provide so much insight into the game, and are highly entertaining. I can’t imagine anyone else bringing the same gravitas and humour or bringing out the best in the players as well as he can,” a third wrote.
“He makes this show. Probably won’t watch it with a different host. These shoes are too big to fill,” another commented.
Former Australian Survivor cast members respond to Jonathan LaPaglia news
After Jonathan LaPaglia shared he was “blindsided” by the network and said being fired “hurt like a bitch” on Instagram, his post was liked over 20,000 times and many former Australian Survivor contestants shared their disappointment.
“You are the best host in the business Jonathan LaPaglia,” said King George Mladenov. “Let the game breathe, impartial and ironically hilarious. Your excellent hosting let the Episode 7 Tribal Council unfold the way it did because you had the skills and experience to just let it happen and let it keep going.”
“Not a bad word in the comments lets you know the impact you have left on everyone that played and watched the game. A big part of my experience out there. You might not of shown it but I could tell you were upset every time I got blindsided in the game haha… it’s been a pleasure King,” Luke Toki added.
“My heart hurts JLP. We all think you’re the freaking best! Thank you for making the last 10 years so epic. We’re so lucky to have had you!” Brooke Jowett commented.
“No way! It’s going to be hard to imagine the show without you mate. An actual living legend,” Jordie Hansen said.
Who will be the next host of Australian Survivor?
According to Daily Mail, former Survivor: All-Stars champion David Genat is set to step into JLP’s shoes. A production insider criticised this decision, saying: “Survivor needs someone with gravitas. David is not Jonathan, and viewers will notice that.”
Well, this was one blindside we weren’t expecting. Fans will still get to see JLP host Australian Survivor one last time, as Survivor: Australia V The World was filmed before he was axed.
You can watch Australian Survivor on 10Play
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