Journalist Tom Steinfort has emerged as a top candidate for a permanent role on Nine's Today show after ratings rose during his co-hosting test week.
The 41-year-old Nine journalist received positive feedback from viewers and network insiders while filling in on the desk alongside co-host Samantha Armytage. The network is testing presenters to replace Karl Stefanovic following his departure from the breakfast program.
Wednesday's edition of Today drew 756,000 viewers nationally, compared with 696,000 viewers the previous Wednesday when Michael Willesee Jr hosted. Viewership increased again on Thursday to 722,000 national viewers, up from 686,000 the previous week.
An industry insider praised the performance of Steinfort to The Daily Telegraph, noting that he had proven himself to the network. "This week was much more of a comfortable watch," the insider said. "Tom is a great pick, he has a strong work ethic. He is good... His wife is from Sydney, they could easily pack their bags."
Steinfort is already highly regarded at Nine and has previously worked on the program. He served as Today newsreader in 2019 alongside Deborah Knight and Georgie Gardner, later worked as a reporter for 60 Minutes, and co-hosted Weekend Today.
Viewer feedback and future trial pairings
Viewers on social media also reacted positively to his trial week, with some calling for him to get the permanent co-hosting position. "I absolutely love love love Tom!! He has so much charisma, I'd love for him to take over from Karl," one viewer wrote.
Another viewer commented on the on-air partnership. "I have to say I watched this on the telly yesterday and thought Sam & Tom have great chemistry!" the viewer wrote.
Steinfort will stay in the co-hosting seat next week for another trial. However, Armytage will be replaced by Today Extra co-host Sylvia Jeffreys as Nine continues to test different presenter combinations on the show.
Nine has not made a final decision on the vacant presenter slot. Veteran reporter Joel Dry is also among the names being considered for the role and could receive a co-hosting test, according to The Daily Telegraph.
Breakfast television ratings battle
Despite the ratings improvement for Today, Nine continues to lag behind its commercial rival in the morning slot. Seven's Sunrise attracted more than one million national viewers on both Wednesday and Thursday, maintaining a sizeable ratings lead over Today.
Nine's search for a permanent host remains ongoing as the network evaluates presenters before choosing a successor to Stefanovic. Steinfort's improved ratings and positive audience response have strengthened his standing among the contenders for the role.
