The sun has set on Alex Cullen's tenure at Channel Seven in a departure that has sent shockwaves through Australian television. The popular weather presenter's sudden exit from the Sunrise team was far from the amicable split initially portrayed, with sources revealing a story of behind-the-scenes drama and internal tension.
According to multiple insiders who spoke exclusively to Daily Mail Australia, Cullen's departure was anything but voluntary. The 47-year-old presenter was reportedly informed his contract would not be renewed during a tense meeting with network executives, a move that caught both Cullen and his colleagues completely off guard.
A Career Cut Short
Cullen, who joined the Sunrise team in 2018 following David 'Kochie' Koch's heart attack scare, quickly became a familiar face in Australian households. His seamless transition into the morning show format and chemistry with co-hosts Natalie Barr and Mark Beretta made him a viewer favourite.
His final broadcast on Friday morning gave no indication of the impending departure, with Cullen delivering his weather forecast with characteristic professionalism and warmth. Colleagues were only informed of his exit moments before the news broke publicly, creating an atmosphere of shock and confusion within the studio.
Behind the Scenes Tensions
Sources close to the network suggest that management had been considering changes to the Sunrise lineup for several weeks. The decision forms part of a broader strategy to refresh the network's flagship morning program, though insiders question the handling of Cullen's dismissal.
One production staff member, who wished to remain anonymous, revealed: 'Everyone is absolutely stunned. Alex was well-liked and respected by the entire team. The way this was handled has left a bitter taste in many people's mouths.'
What Next for Channel Seven?
The sudden vacancy leaves Sunrise with a significant gap in its presenting team as the network scrambles to find a replacement. Speculation is already mounting about potential successors, with several internal and external names being circulated within industry circles.
For Cullen, the unexpected career move comes at a challenging time for television professionals. However, his extensive experience in sports presenting and weather forecasting makes him a valuable commodity in the competitive media landscape.
The incident highlights the precarious nature of television careers, where even established presenters can find themselves unexpectedly seeking new opportunities. As one media commentator noted: 'In television, today's familiar face can become tomorrow's memory without warning.'
