Danika Mason to Return to NRL Coverage After Today Show Departure

Danika Mason has revealed her plans to continue covering the National Rugby League (NRL) after announcing her departure from the Channel Nine "Today" show. Mason, who is expecting her first child with NRL player Liam Knight, confirmed her exit from the breakfast program on Friday, citing the need to balance her work commitments with her growing family.

Speaking to The Daily Telegraph, Mason stated her intention to be back covering the NRL for its first round in Australia next year. "I don't think I will go over to Vegas for obvious reasons. But I'll be back for round one in Australia," she said.

Mason, 35, made the tearful announcement on the "Today" show on Friday morning, following earlier reports of her impending departure. She explained that the demanding schedule of working six days a week, often involving travel and late-night broadcasts, was incompatible with preparing for a newborn.

"Obviously juggling all my NRL commitments, the Today show and a new baby as well, something had to give," Mason told her co-hosts. "So I have made the pretty tough decision. So, when I return next year, I won’t be coming back to the show."

She expressed gratitude for her time on the program, highlighting the positive experiences with the audience and the production team over the past two years. "Absolutely loved my time. We have had the best audience, the best team. It has been such a fun two years, and everyone who is in here in the morning, all our floor crew, you guys are just amazing. I've had the best time."

Mason's departure from "Today" follows a series of other changes to the program. Weatherman Tim Davies concluded his seven-year tenure last month, and former co-host Sarah Abo also departed earlier this year. Karl Stefanovic also left the show in June after a controversial interview.

Sylvia Jeffreys and Tom Steinfort have been confirmed as the new hosting team for "Today."