Sunrise star Dr Keith Suter has died in hospital at the age of 77 after being a fixture on the Channel Seven show for more than 20 years.
The beloved commentator has been a trusted voice on the morning show since his first appearance in 2002, sharing key insights into foreign affairs and complex news.
Channel Seven announced Dr Suter’s death in a post on Friday morning, writing that the foreign-policy analyst “leaves behind a remarkable legacy”.
“Seven’s foreign affairs commentator Dr Keith Suter has died in hospital, leaving behind a remarkable legacy of expertise and insight.
“The respected international affairs expert, who held three doctorates and chaired numerous international bodies, is being remembered as a trusted voice on some of the world’s most complex stories…
“The news of his passing has been met with sadness from colleagues and viewers who valued his insightful analysis of world events,” Channel Seven said.
The network confirmed a special tribute to Dr Suter will air on Weekend Sunrise tomorrow (Saturday, December 13).
It said the tribute will “honour his contributions to journalism and international affairs commentary”.
At the time of writing, Dr Suter’s cause of death has not been confirmed.
Former Sunrise presenter Sam Armytage has led tributes to Dr Suter following this morning’s announcement.
“Very sad to hear of the passing of Dr Keith Suter overnight. He was a wonderful man.
“He guided us through many of the biggest world issues of our time — with grace and humour. You could talk to him all day, and often during breaking news, we did. RIP Dr Keith,” Armytage shared on her Instagram Story.
Sunrise fans have been left heartbroken by the news, and many rushed to social media to honour the popular figure.
“I loved to listen to what Dr Suter had to say. A very knowledgeable man on world affairs. Thank you Keith you will be missed,” one viewer wrote.
“Oh how sad! There aren’t too many left like him. A man full of valuable knowledge. Condolences to his family. May he rest in peace,” another fan echoed.
“Oh no, what a huge loss. Dr Suter could always explain what was really going on with really serious issues and his insight was the best bar none. He will be really missed,” said a third.
“He will be a loss in our communication and understanding of major events. He was always a voice of reason,” a fourth penned.
Among his remarkable achievements, Dr Suter was appointed a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) in the 2019 Queen’s Birthday Honours for his “significant service to international relations and the Uniting Church in Australia”.
He was also awarded the Australian Government’s Peace Medal in 1986 and was named Rostrum’s Communicator of the Year in 1995.
Throughout his distinguished career, Dr Suter published 12 books on subjects including terrorism and global disorder, and was a member of the United Nations Association of Australia.
