After a summer stint on the desk, Michael Atkinson has joined the Weekend Today team permanently, becoming a regular face for viewers each weekend.
Atkinson said: “I’m excited and proud to be joining the Today family and becoming part of a program that’s such a trusted part of Australians’ weekends. I grew up in regional Queensland where weekends are about family, sport and catching up on what matters, so this role feels especially meaningful.
“I’ve always had a passion for sport and the impact it has on our lives, so I’m fortunate to be continuing to host Stan Sport’s rugby coverage and my love for live sport, while taking on my new role co-hosting Weekend Today.
“I’m very lucky to be working alongside such professionals and outstanding people in Ali, Lizzie and Dan, as well as the exceptional team behind the cameras.”
Weekend Today co-host Alison Piotrowski said Atkinson had quickly settled into the role.
“Michael jumped into the hot seat over summer and took to the show like a duck to water. He’s sports mad, incredibly knowledgeable, and has a wonderful sense of humour. We’re looking forward to making Weekend Today even better for our viewers in 2026,” she said.
Raised in the south-west Queensland towns of St George and Quilpie, Atkinson developed a love of sport early, growing up around rugby league, swimming, cricket, tennis and horse racing.
He began his media career at 29, working as a sports journalist and presenter across 9News Gold Coast and Brisbane. He has also contributed to broadcasts with Nine’s Wide World of Sports, including the Brisbane International and Suncorp Super Netball, and will continue his work with Stan Sport.
Atkinson is an ambassador for Youngcare and in 2021 completed a 250km trek through the Simpson Desert to support the disability charity.
