In a surprising pivot, veteran broadcast journalist Jonathan Uptin has declared he is leaving the media industry for good and embarking on a new career as a marriage celebrant.
From News Cycles to Life Cycles
The 54-year-old, a former sports reporter for Nine Queensland, shared a 'life update' on social media this Monday. He revealed his plans to qualify as a celebrant by the end of 2026 and has already launched a venture called 'Moments with Jono'.
"I want to marry again – now that I've got your attention," Uptin joked in an Instagram post that featured a logo with wedding bands. He stated his desire to move on from the "daily chase of a news cycle" and instead be "part of people’s life cycles."
A Devastating Exit Leads to a Fresh Start
Uptin's departure from Channel Nine came after three decades with the network. He described the moment he learned his contract would not be renewed in late 2025 as "devastating." However, he now reflects on it positively.
"Perhaps it was the best thing that ever happened to me," he told Media Week. "I feel like that part of my life is over, and I want a fresh change. [I want to be around people] who are just in love, and just bringing warmth and good vibes."
The first sign of trouble emerged in July 2024 when Uptin was notably absent from Nine's Olympic coverage, with newsreader Andrew Lofthouse replacing him in Paris.
Building a New Business in Celebrations
Despite not yet being fully qualified, Uptin is already building his new business. He disclosed that he has hosted a commitment ceremony, acted as a celebrant at a funeral, and performed as a Master of Ceremonies at countless functions.
He used his social media post to promote his services, asking followers to contact him for MC or 'unofficial' celebrant duties. Uptin's career began at Prime before he moved to Nine Darwin in the early 2000s. He later replaced rugby league legend Wally Lewis as the weekend sports reporter on Nine News Queensland in 2023.
His exit was confirmed by the Courier Mail in November 2025, and he has now firmly shut the door on a media return, focusing entirely on his new path celebrating life's milestones.
