Mark Beretta’s ‘sudden’ exit from Sunrise leaves ‘everyone wondering’ as he goes public with new girlfriend Renata Hickson

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Mark Beretta made his surprise farewell from Sunrise last week after 22 years.

Just days after emotionally leaving his morning show, sources at the TV network say Mark departed after three decades, anticipating potential layoffs.

According to a source who spoke with New Idea, Beretts recognized that major changes were coming to Channel Seven, similar to what has happened at other television networks.

TV networks are cutting costs, and high-paid celebrities are facing more scrutiny to justify their salaries.

Mark’s unexpected departure has shocked his colleagues. A source at Seven News said people are confused and want to know the reason for his sudden exit.

According to a source familiar with the situation, the sports analyst wasn’t forced to leave his position. He made the decision himself, as he wants to be close to his mother who is fighting cancer.

In November, Mark announced he was leaving Sunrise and the network.

He explained he is stepping away from his role to spend more time with his family.

After losing his father to cancer just two months ago, and with his mother now battling the same illness, he explained that his perspective on life has shifted.

Spending time with family is a top priority for me right now. I also want to support Tour de Cure and their important efforts to discover better cancer treatments and ultimately, a cure.

Following a report in the Daily Mail, it’s been revealed that Sunrise host David Koch is dating Renata Hickson, a former member of the military. She has been a source of support for him during a particularly difficult year.

Beretta hinted that a close friend is supporting him as he leaves Sunrise, copes with the recent loss of his father, David, who passed away in September, and navigates his mother Joan’s health issues.

At the time, he refused to name her, simply saying, ‘Dad loved her, which is great. She’s great.’

The woman who has been supporting Mark through a difficult time and as he starts a new phase of his life has been identified as Renata, a glamorous brunette.

Renata is originally from Hobart, Tasmania, and has degrees in law and political science from the University of Tasmania. She also holds a Master of Teaching.

She served in the military for 17 years and made history as the first Australian woman to command a tank squadron in combat.

She held a key planning position with the U.S. Special Operations Command in Syria, and her work there was recognized with several awards.

Honestly, I’m completely captivated by what she’s doing! She’s dedicating all her energy to lifting up First Nations people and giving them a platform through the Indigenous Marathon Foundation. It’s just… incredible to see, and I’m constantly following her work because it’s so inspiring!

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2025-12-16 08:35