ABC News Breakfast hosts get slammed for breaking fashion norms–here's why

Fashion choices on live television can often spark unexpected reactions.

What started as a casual wardrobe decision quickly became the subject of heated debate across the nation.

The fallout has raised questions about how much a presenter’s appearance should influence their credibility and connection with the audience.


ABC News Breakfast host James Glenday faced backlash after breaking from tradition by appearing without a tie during 21 January’s broadcast.

The veteran journalist, who recently took over as host following Michael Rowland’s departure, was criticised for the unusual fashion choice, despite being a respected figure at the national broadcaster for 15 years.

A TV industry blogger on Media Spy complained: ‘Glenday without a tie looks odd and rather forced. Would look more natural with one on.’


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Glenday's tie-less look sparks mixed reactions on-air. Image source: ABC


The same blogger also took aim at Nate Byrne, the program's weatherman, for his vibrant open-neck shirt, saying: ‘Nate also needs to stop dressing like a male kinder teacher.’

Glenday, who replaced Rowland as co-host this month, was previously ABC's 7:00 pm newsreader in Canberra and had filled in as a host on the Breakfast show several times.

While many viewers were quick to criticise Glenday’s attire, others defended the hosts’ choices, saying their wardrobe didn’t hinder their ability to perform on-air.

One fan posted: ‘Glenday looks fine sans tie, and Nate has always dressed in his own unique way – neither inhibits the way they do their job.’

Another agreed: ‘They both look fine to me.’


Some commenters also noted that female presenters often face harsher scrutiny for their fashion choices.

‘On the one hand, it’s refreshing to see males being scrutinised for what they wear for a change,’ one user said.

‘On the other hand, both seem to do their jobs perfectly well in their current attire.’


Glenday's rise to the Breakfast show came after long-time host Rowland announced his departure in December, citing the physical toll of early starts and expressing gratitude for his 15 years on the show.

In a statement, Glenday said: ‘The chance to join News Breakfast and take over from Michael Rowland, a beloved colossus of Australian broadcasting, is an offer I couldn’t refuse.’

He also mentioned his co-host, Bridget Brennan, saying: ‘It will be a beautiful thing to present the show with Bridget, a long-time friend and fellow millennial.’

‘We’re quite different people, but for some inexplicable reason she tolerates my terrible jokes, so we get along well.’


Meanwhile, Rowland shared his reasons for stepping away from the role, admitting: ‘I'm leaving News Breakfast. I’m sorry to the viewers out there for the short notice.

‘I’m not one for long and drawn-out farewells and I wanted minimal fuss.’

Rowland, who anchored significant events like the 100th anniversary of the Gallipoli landings and the passing of Queen Elizabeth II, reflected on his time as the host, saying: ‘I love the job, it’s the best job I’ve had in the ABC. In fact, anywhere.’

‘But after 15 years of 3:00 am starts my body is screaming "Enough!" And so too is my wife.’


His co-host, Bridget Brennan, paid tribute, calling it an ‘honour and a privilege’ to work alongside him, and praising his dedication to journalism and public service.

‘After 15 years, Australians will miss his presence each and every morning enormously, but I know we all appreciate the incredible effort he has given to News Breakfast for such a long time,’ Brennan added.

Glenday’s appointment and Rowland’s departure marked a new chapter for ABC’s Breakfast show, with the broadcaster confirming Catherine Murphy as the replacement for Tony Armstrong as sports presenter.

Key Takeaways
  • James Glenday faced criticism for appearing without a tie on ABC News Breakfast, with some viewers finding the look forced and others defending his attire.
  • Some viewers also criticised weatherman Nate Byrne for his colourful open-neck shirt, with one blogger likening his style to a 'male kinder teacher.'
  • Glenday recently replaced Michael Rowland, who left the show after 15 years due to the toll of early mornings, while Glenday expressed excitement to join the program and work with co-host Bridget Brennan.
  • Rowland reflected on his departure, noting his appreciation for the role and the physical strain, with Brennan paying tribute to his dedication and contributions over the years.

Should a presenter’s style influence how they're perceived, or should their professionalism take centre stage? We'd love to hear your thoughts in the comments.
 

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