Melissa Doyle lands dream gig hosting this major TV host's highly anticipated Australian comeback tour

When veteran television journalist Melissa Doyle says she's 'pinching herself,' you know something extraordinary is happening.

The 55-year-old former Sunrise host has just secured what might be the most coveted interviewing role in the country: moderating Oprah Winfrey's intimate Australian tour conversations this December.

'I'm beyond excited to return after ten years,' Oprah revealed. 'The energy, warmth, and spirit I felt from audiences last time stayed with me. This tour is a chance to reconnect, reflect, and be reinspired—together.'

For Doyle, who spent over a decade as the trusted face of Channel Seven's breakfast television, this represents a career pinnacle that has her inner journalist practically bursting with excitement.

A dream decades in the making

'I am so excited. It is frickin' Oprah,' Doyle told The Daily Telegraph, her enthusiasm palpable. 'The 15-year-old wannabe journo inside of me is squealing. What an honour.'

The opportunity came together quickly, with Doyle speaking to the American media icon via Zoom earlier this week ahead of the official announcement.

In a warm video message, Oprah personally endorsed her Australian moderator, singing Doyle's name and promising audiences 'an unforgettable evening of lessons and laughing and life-changing moments.'

The tour that Australia's been waiting for

Media trailblazer and cultural powerhouse Oprah Winfrey will return to tour Australia and New Zealand in December 2025, marking a decade since her last sold-out tour captivated local audiences. This isn't your typical celebrity speaking engagement—it's something far more intimate and meaningful.

The format promises something special. In a moderated conversation, Oprah will share powerful lessons from her own life, explore the universal themes that connect us all — resilience, happiness, growth, and purpose — and invite attendees to imagine what's possible, no matter where they are on their journey.

Paul Dainty AO, of TEG Dainty, captured the significance perfectly: 'Oprah Winfrey is a cultural icon whose influence spans generations. Her ability to engage, uplift, and empower audiences is unparalleled.'

What makes this extra special

There's something particularly meaningful about Oprah's message for Australian audiences, especially those who've lived through decades of life's ups and downs.

'It's never too late to become the fullest, truest version of oneself,' the tour promises—words that resonate deeply with anyone who's ever wondered if their best days are behind them.

More than a decade since her last sold-out visit, Oprah invites audiences to an intimate evening of storytelling, reflection, and inspiration from one of the world's most influential voices.

Each night, Oprah will share key moments from her life and explore themes like resilience, growth, and purpose. With warmth and honesty, she'll offer heartfelt stories and insights to help audiences reconnect with what truly matters.

A career-defining moment for Melissa

For Doyle, this opportunity represents more than just another high-profile interview. After years covering hard news and standing in disaster zones, she's found joy in shifting toward more uplifting content.

'I think I've done my years of heartbreak,' she reflected. '[I can't wait to] do very different topics which don't require me to stand in [disaster] zones.'

Currently hosting Channel Seven's Friday night health and lifestyle program House of Wellness, Doyle has evolved from her breakfast television days into a role that better aligns with her current life stage. This Oprah opportunity feels like the perfect culmination of that journey.

The interview that's got everyone talking

What makes this pairing particularly intriguing is the natural chemistry between two accomplished women who've built their careers on authentic connection. Doyle admits she's nervous—unusual for someone with her extensive interviewing experience.

'I feel like I don't get nervous about interviewing somebody because it is my job, it is what I've trained for and what I do,' she explained. 'But there is something about Oprah—she is just such a powerhouse. I've looked at her as an example of potential and a way you can use your voice. I've just looked at her as an inspiration.'

Planning your Oprah experience

For those considering attending, the venues have been thoughtfully chosen for their intimacy and accessibility. Ticket prices in Adelaide range from $109 to $439, with wheelchair accessible seating available in all venues.

Premium VIP packages offer front-row seating, photo opportunities with Oprah, and access to exclusive post-show networking receptions with gourmet refreshments.

The timing couldn't be better for Australian audiences hungry for inspiration and connection.

As we navigate an increasingly complex world, 'One of the things I have always enjoyed is sitting down for real, honest, enlightening conversations, and this experience is all about that,' Oprah explains. 'The energy, warmth, and spirit I feel in Australia and New Zealand have stayed with me, and returning will be an opportunity to reconnect, reflect, and be reinspired—together.'

With Melissa Doyle at the helm of these conversations, Australian audiences can expect the perfect blend of journalistic professionalism and genuine warmth. It's shaping up to be one of the most memorable live events of the year.

Have you managed to secure tickets for Oprah's Australian tour? What questions would you most like to hear Melissa ask? Share your thoughts and excitement about this once-in-a-decade opportunity in the comments below.