Weekend Today host Belinda Russell announces she’s leaving the show

Nine presenter Belinda Russell has posted a statement to social media, abruptly revealing she’s finishing up on Weekend Today.

Belinda Russell has announced she will no longer be hosting Weekend Today – and provided no reason for her sudden departure.

The Nine presenter, 44, shared a statement about her departure to Instagram on Sunday, along with a highlights video of her time on the show.

“Hello friends. A little career update for you,” Russell wrote.

“My time on Weekend Today has come to an end. Thanks to those who tuned in. I hope I brought some sunshine and joy to your weekends.

“I have loved the last year and am looking forward to future opportunities at Nine. Good luck to the team for 2023 and beyond!”

Her Nine colleagues flocked to the comments section to offer support, including Today Extra co-host David Campbell, who posted a series of love hearts and the words: “My sister.”

It’s not clear whether Russell’s exit was her own decision or that of Today bosses.

A Nine Network spokesperson told news.com.au: “Belinda is a valued member of the 9News team which will enable her to work across all of our news brands. We will be making further announcements soon.”

Russell with Weekend Today newsreader Jayne Azzopardi and co-host Clint Stanaway.

In a coincidental twist, Russell was called up as fill-in host for Today Extra this morning, with regular presenter Sylvia Jeffreys absent to take care of her sick kids.

Russell has been on air at Nine since 2007, when she began as a reporter for A Current Affair.

She last appeared on Weekend Today on Sunday, February 26, but made no mention of her imminent departure and didn’t receive a send-off.

Russell was replaced by newsreader Jayne Azzopardi over the past weekend – but despite being absent from the Today desk on Saturday morning, Russell was on air that night for her usual weather bulletin during the Sydney evening news.