David Genat Discloses Contact with Predecessor After Australian Survivor Hosting Shake-up
David Genat has publicly revealed that he initiated contact with Jonathan LaPaglia in the aftermath of the television veteran's abrupt dismissal as host of Australian Survivor last year. Genat, aged 45, who assumed presenting duties following LaPaglia's controversial exit, explicitly stated that the pair do not consider themselves friends, though their interactions remain amicable.
Interview Details and Awkwardness Questions
Appearing on the Hit Network's Carrie and Tommy Show on Monday, the former model and reality star faced probing questions regarding the significant hosting change on the popular survival series. When co-host Carrie Bickmore inquired whether the situation was awkward with LaPaglia, Genat responded diplomatically, saying, 'That's a question for Jonathan. Not for me. I mean, I think Jonathan's amazing.'
During the candid conversation, Genat confirmed that LaPaglia had replied to his message, though he declined to share specific details of their exchange. He simply noted that relations between them were 'good' and elaborated, 'I wouldn't say we're friends, but yeah. I mean, it's fine. Of course you're upset.'
Genat Distances Himself from Production Decision
Elsewhere in the interview, Genat carefully distanced himself from the producers' decision to terminate LaPaglia's contract, emphasizing he played no role in the breakup. LaPaglia had been a fan-favourite host for nearly a decade before his unexpected departure.
Genat explained his perspective, stating, 'I was not involved in the breakup, but yeah, I mean, look, I just sent him a message and said he's done such an amazing thing with the show and his legacy can't be touched.' He added, 'So I'm just trying to build on it and make it my own and just like continue making this the greatest show.'
Reflecting on the professional nature of such changes, Genat remarked, 'You lose a job. I've lost so many jobs and been upset, but it was not my fault. So what could he say? I just sent him a nice message to just tell him, like how much I respected him.'
Background on Genat's Appointment and LaPaglia's Exit
This revelation follows Genat's official announcement as LaPaglia's replacement last August. The Australian-born reality star, who resides in Texas with his family, first joined the Survivor franchise in 2019 on Australian Survivor: Champions v Contenders. He was voted out as the 14th castaway but returned triumphantly the following season for Australian Survivor All Stars in 2020, which he ultimately won.
Meanwhile, LaPaglia shocked devoted fans last June when he confirmed his axing from the series after almost ten years at the helm. The television personality received an outpouring of support after revealing he would front the show for the final time in the Australia V The World series, which premiered on Sunday.
LaPaglia later detailed the brutal manner in which he learned of his job loss, telling The Daily Telegraph, 'The speculation online was that I received an email. But no, it was a call to my manager in Australia. I didn't get a direct call... disappointing.'
Australian Survivor: Redemption is scheduled to premiere on February 23 on Channel 10, marking a new chapter for the series under Genat's stewardship.
