Matt McLean Age, Height, Net Worth, Boyfriend, Birthday, Wiki

When a 20-year-old journalism graduate joined New Zealand’s TVNZ in 2007, few could have predicted he would become one of the country’s most influential media personalities. Matthew Bruce McLean, known professionally as Matty McLean, transformed from a nervous newcomer into a trusted voice who would help reshape New Zealand broadcasting and advance LGBTQ+ representation on national television.

McLean announced his departure from TVNZ in November 2023, with his emotional farewell on his final day in December 2023 marking the end of his 16-year tenure at the network. His transition to radio with The Hits marked not just a career change, but the evolution of a broadcaster whose authentic approach has resonated with audiences across New Zealand and beyond.

Key Facts at a Glance

Early Life and Education: From Queenstown to Broadcasting School

Born to parents Steve and Tracy McLean on September 29, 1986, Matt McLean’s formative years in New Zealand shaped his future media career. He attended Wakatipu High School, where he first began to understand his identity and develop the communication skills that would later serve him in broadcasting.

McLean’s educational path led him to the New Zealand Broadcasting School at Christchurch Polytechnic Institute of Technology, where he studied broadcast journalism. This comprehensive program provided the technical foundation and industry knowledge necessary for his subsequent career in television and radio.

His early experiences at school, particularly during high school, were not always easy. McLean has spoken candidly about facing challenges related to his identity as a gay student, experiences that would later inform his advocacy work and authentic approach to broadcasting. These formative years instilled in him a determination to succeed and a desire to create positive representation for others facing similar challenges.

Who is Matty McLean and What Made Him Famous?

Matty McLean is a New Zealand journalist and television presenter best known for his seven-year role as co-host of TVNZ’s Breakfast program, where he became a household name across the country. His career spans nearly two decades in New Zealand media, establishing him as one of the nation’s most recognizable broadcasting personalities.

McLean’s prominence extends beyond traditional media. He gained significant public attention as the winner of Celebrity Treasure Island’s “Fans vs Faves” season in 2023, donating his $60,000 prize to Zeal Education Trust. His popularity in his television role saw him win the Woman’s Day Television Personality of the Year award, reflecting his connection with audiences nationwide.

Born to parents Steve and Tracy McLean, he developed his media skills at the New Zealand Broadcasting School before launching a career that would span television news, weather presenting, and ultimately morning show hosting. His Wikipedia entry reflects his status as a notable New Zealand media personality.

How Did Matt McLean Build His Television Career?

McLean’s broadcasting career began immediately after completing his education at Wakatipu High School and the New Zealand Broadcasting School at Christchurch Polytechnic Institute of Technology. At age 20, he joined TVNZ in 2007, initially working as a reporter on programs including Close Up and 20/20.

His career progression followed a clear chronological path. After establishing himself as a reporter, McLean expanded his roles to include Seven Sharp and 1News, building credibility through serious journalism and developing his on-screen presence. This foundation in news reporting would later serve him well when he transitioned to morning television.

The defining moment came in 2017 when McLean returned to TVNZ after international experience with Al Jazeera in London. He initially joined Breakfast as the weather presenter, but his natural charisma and connection with viewers led to an expanded role as co-host. This position made him one of New Zealand’s most visible television personalities.

What Happened to Matty McLean on TVNZ Breakfast?

In November 2023, McLean made an emotional announcement that surprised both colleagues and viewers. Matty McLean left TVNZ Breakfast in December 2023 after accepting an offer to host The Hits drive radio show, ending his 16-year association with the television network.

His departure marked a significant shift in New Zealand morning television. McLean had become synonymous with Breakfast, known for his warm interactions with viewers and colleagues alike. His final weeks featured tributes from the team and audience, reflecting the deep connection he had built over seven years as a co-host.

McLean’s transition from television to radio represents a strategic career move rather than retirement from media. He joined forces with experienced broadcaster Polly ‘PJ’ Harding to host The Hits Drive Show with Matty and PJ, which airs weekdays from 3pm-7pm. The move allows him to continue broadcasting while exploring new creative opportunities in radio.

Who is Ryan Teece and How Did He Meet Matty McLean?

Ryan Teece is a real estate agent who became Matty McLean’s husband following their December 31, 2022 wedding at Muriwai Beach, West Auckland. Their relationship represents a modern love story that has captured public attention in New Zealand.

The couple’s relationship timeline began in 2015 when they first connected on Tinder, though they didn’t meet in person until 2017. Their connection deepened over several years of dating, leading to Teece’s proposal in February 2022 on their anniversary. The engagement came after they had been together for five years, marking a significant milestone in their relationship.

Their New Year’s Eve wedding featured unconventional elements that reflected their personalities. The ceremony included tequila shots before vows, rings hidden under guests’ chairs in an Oprah-style surprise, and a reception soundtrack mixing traditional wedding music with Harry Styles. The celebration attracted media attention and featured notable guests from New Zealand’s entertainment industry.

How Has Matty McLean Advanced LGBTQ+ Representation in New Zealand Media?

McLean’s impact on LGBTQ+ visibility in New Zealand extends far beyond his television presence. In 2012, he made a compelling personal plea to Parliament advocating for marriage equality, sharing his story of coming out to his father and expressing his hope that legislation would allow him to marry someday.

His parliamentary testimony proved influential in New Zealand’s marriage equality debate. McLean’s emotional account of his father’s initial disappointment—not in him personally, but in the barriers he would face—resonated with lawmakers and the public. His father’s subsequent pride in his advocacy demonstrated the personal growth possible through open dialogue.

McLean continues LGBTQ+ advocacy through his podcast “Out the Gayte,” which he co-hosts with members of the NZ Falcons Auckland rugby club. The podcast addresses gay issues and provides representation for LGBTQ+ New Zealanders. In 2023, he discussed on the podcast his and Ryan’s consideration of starting a family, further normalizing diverse family structures.

What Was Matty McLean’s Celebrity Treasure Island Victory About?

Matty McLean won the 2023 “Fans vs Faves” season of Celebrity Treasure Island, earning $60,000 for charity. His victory represented redemption after an earlier unsuccessful appearance on the show, where he was eliminated before reaching the merge.

Initially, McLean had intended to compete for Rainbow Youth, which provides services for queer and gender diverse youth and their wider communities. However, he ultimately competed and won for Zeal Education Trust, demonstrating his commitment to supporting charitable causes that align with his values and advocacy work.

The competition allowed McLean to address childhood experiences of feeling inadequate among peers. He spoke openly about his struggles growing up as a gay student, explaining how the physical and mental challenges of Treasure Island connected to his need to prove himself. His victory validated his resilience and competitive spirit.

What Recognition Has Matt McLean Received for His Broadcasting Work?

McLean’s contributions to New Zealand media have earned significant recognition throughout his career. He won the Woman’s Day Television Personality of the Year award, reflecting his popularity among viewers who appreciate his authentic on-air presence.

His Celebrity Treasure Island victory in 2023 added to his public profile, demonstrating his competitive nature beyond broadcasting. The show’s format allowed audiences to see different aspects of his personality, contributing to his reputation as a multi-dimensional media figure.

McLean’s career achievements include nearly two decades of consistent work across New Zealand’s premier television programs. His longevity in the competitive media landscape, combined with his successful transition between different formats and roles, demonstrates professional adaptability and audience appeal.

What Personal Challenges Has Matty McLean Discussed Publicly?

McLean has been notably open about personal struggles, contributing to his authentic public persona. He has discussed his weight loss efforts and fitness goals publicly, sharing his health transformation with audiences who followed his progress over time. His candor about his health and fitness challenges has resonated with viewers who appreciate his honesty about personal improvement.

His on-air mistakes have become part of his charm rather than career obstacles. Notable incidents include accidentally swearing live on Breakfast in 2023 when he thought cameras were off, and a 2017 slip when attempting to say “country.” These moments were generally received positively by the public, who appreciated his genuine reactions and human authenticity. Rather than damaging his reputation, these incidents endeared him further to audiences who valued his unpolished, relatable moments.

McLean has also shared his coming-out experience, particularly the emotional process of telling his father about his sexuality. This openness about personal challenges has made him relatable to audiences facing similar experiences, contributing to his role as an LGBTQ+ advocate and visible representative.

Philanthropy and Advocacy: Supporting New Zealand Communities

McLean’s philanthropic efforts extend beyond his television career, demonstrating a commitment to supporting charitable causes throughout New Zealand. His work with Zeal Education Trust, for which he donated his $60,000 Celebrity Treasure Island winnings, reflects his dedication to youth development and education.

His advocacy for Rainbow Youth, an organization providing services for queer and gender diverse youth and their wider communities, showcases his ongoing commitment to LGBTQ+ causes. McLean’s parliamentary submission on marriage equality in 2012 remains one of his most significant advocacy contributions, helping to advance equal rights legislation in New Zealand.

Through his podcast “Out the Gayte” and public appearances, McLean continues to advocate for LGBTQ+ visibility and acceptance. His platform allows him to address important social issues while providing representation for communities that have historically been underrepresented in mainstream New Zealand media.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Q: Who is Matty McLean’s husband?
A: Matty McLean is married to real estate agent Ryan Teece, whom he wed on December 31, 2022, at Muriwai Beach.

• Q: What happened to Matty McLean on Breakfast?
A: Matty McLean left TVNZ’s Breakfast show in December 2023 to become co-host of The Hits drive radio show.

• Q: Where is Matt McLean from in New Zealand?
A: Matt McLean attended Wakatipu High School and studied at Christchurch Polytechnic’s broadcasting school before starting his TVNZ career.

• Q: How old is Matty McLean in 2025?
A: Matty McLean will turn 39 in September 2025, having been born on September 29, 1986.

• Q: Did Matty McLean win Celebrity Treasure Island?
A: Yes, Matty McLean won the “Fans vs Faves” season of Celebrity Treasure Island in 2023, donating $60,000 to Zeal Education Trust.

• Q: What awards has Matt McLean won?
A: Matt McLean won the Woman’s Day Television Personality of the Year award and Celebrity Treasure Island.

• Q: What is Matty McLean doing now?
A: Matty McLean currently hosts The Hits Drive Show with Matty and PJ weekdays from 3pm-7pm with co-host Polly ‘PJ’ Harding.

What is Matty McLean’s Current Role and Future Impact?

Since January 2024, McLean has co-hosted The Hits Drive Show with Matty and PJ with Polly ‘PJ’ Harding, marking his successful transition from television to radio. Their partnership represents a significant investment by NZME in proven broadcasting talent, reflecting McLean’s continued relevance in New Zealand media.

His radio work allows him to maintain his connection with audiences while exploring new creative possibilities. The drive show format provides opportunities for longer conversations and music curation, expanding his broadcasting repertoire beyond morning television’s structured format.

McLean’s lasting influence lies in his authentic representation of LGBTQ+ New Zealanders in mainstream media. His visibility as an openly gay broadcaster, combined with his advocacy work and personal openness, has contributed to positive social change. His marriage to Ryan Teece and their public discussions about family planning continue to normalize diverse relationships for New Zealand audiences.

As he continues his radio career, McLean remains a significant figure in New Zealand’s media landscape. His successful transition between television and radio demonstrates professional adaptability, while his ongoing advocacy ensures his influence extends beyond entertainment into social progress and LGBTQ+ representation.