Is Richard Wilkins stepping away from Today? Longtime reporter will have a ‘reduced role in 2023’

Richard Wilkins could be gearing up for retirement in the coming year as the Weekend Today co-host will be reducing his time on camera in 2023. 

After 35 years at the network, sources at Nine said he will take on the title of ‘Network Entertainment Editor’ in the coming year.

The Daily Telegraph also reported the 68-year-old could soon be replaced as co-host of the weekend breakfast show by Charles Croucher. 

The publication went on to report Belinda Russell’s role on Weekend Today and Today Extra may also look different in the New Year.

Daily Mail Australia has reached out to Nine for comment.  

It’s not the only time Wilkins has faced rumours he may soon be stepping down from Today.

In December 2021, Nine’s boss Darren Wick was forced to tell The Sunday Telegraph  Wilkins would be returning to work amidst rumours his workload was being reduced due to concerns for his health.

After 35 years at the network, sources at Nine said he will take on the title of ‘Network Entertainment Editor’ in the coming year

‘Richard is absolutely fine. He is fighting fit and will be with us for many years to come,’ he said at the time.

The entertainment reporter had tested positive for COVID-19 three times last year and spent 18 days in isolation. 

It comes after Wilkins celebrated 35 years with Channel Nine in May by throwing a poolside party at his home in Sydney’s Cremorne and inviting all his famous friends.

The likes of Sylvia Jeffreys, Lauren Phillips, Ben Fordham, Jayne Azzopardi and Tim Gilbert were all in attendance. 

The Daily Telegraph also reported the 68-year-old could soon be replaced as co-host of the weekend breakfast show by Charles Croucher (pictured)

It’s not the only time Wilkins has faced rumours he may soon be stepping down from Today. Pictured during Today’s 40 year milestone celebration

Jeffreys and Phillips both took to Instagram to congratulate Richard on his incredible career milestone.

Alongside a group photo from the party, Jeffreys, 36, wrote: ‘Dickie is the kind of friend who makes you feel like family. I’m so proud to call him a mate and to celebrate his 35 years at Channel Nine. We love you Dickie Bird.’ 

Phillips also shared two photos of herself embracing Wilkins and holding onto a glass of Champagne.

‘My all-time favourite. Celebrating 35 years of this absolute legend at Channel 9. We adore you Dickie xx,’ she gushed.

Azzopardi shared a close-up shot of the epic cake which featured a photo of Wilkins in one of his trademark suits on the icing, while Fordham, 45, shared two candid shots of himself grabbing hold of Wilkin’s girlfriend Nicola Dale as she leaned over the pool. 

It comes after Wilkins celebrated 35 years with Channel Nine in May by throwing a poolside party at his home in Sydney’s Cremorne and inviting all his famous friends. Pictured L to R: Sylvia Jeffreys, Richard Wilkins, Tim Gilbert and James Birtles