There’s a new king of prime time in town, and he’s swapping crocodiles for celebrities.
Robert Irwin has officially been announced as the host of the 2026 TV Week Logie Awards, taking over from fan-favourite comedian Sam Pang, who steered Australian television’s biggest night for the past three years.
The 22-year-old wildlife warrior admitted the opportunity left him more excited than just about anything else he’s done.
“Throughout my life, my goal has been to spread an important message not only through our work at Australia Zoo, but also on the screen,” he told TV Week. “I grew up watching the Logies with my family, so this is certainly an honour.
“Australian television has given so much to so many people. To be part of the biggest night in Aussie TV is something I don’t take lightly. I cannot wait.”
For months, television fans have been speculating about who would inherit the Logies hosting duties. Robert’s name regularly surfaced in the conversation, even becoming the subject of an April Fool’s Day joke article earlier this year claiming he’d already landed the role.
This time, however, it’s no joke. TV Week Editorial Director Amber Giles said Robert was the obvious choice, describing him as the hottest name on Australian television right now.
While he has already won over audiences as co-host of the reality hit I’m a Celebrity…Get Me Out of Here!, his profile exploded internationally after winning the American version of Dancing with the Stars late last year.
Since then, Robert has been everywhere. He’s making headlines around the globe, preparing to host a US spin-off series and even popping up this week as a special guest judge on MasterChef Australia.
“To have him home hosting Australian TV’s biggest night is extremely exciting,” Giles said. “We can’t wait to see what he brings to the stage in August.”
Robert is no stranger to the Logies spotlight either. In 2024, he was nominated for both the Bert Newton Award for Most Popular Presenter and the coveted Gold Logie.
And while wrangling snakes, crocodiles and other wildlife has become second nature, handling a room full of Australia’s biggest television stars may present a whole new challenge.
Then again, if anyone can charm a cranky crocodile, a few nervous celebrities should be a walk in the park.
The 2026 TV Week Logie Awards will be held on August 16 at The Star Sydney, with all eyes set to be firmly on Robert as he takes centre stage on Australian television’s night of nights.
Images: Instagram
