Television has a way of becoming a part of our daily lives, with familiar faces offering comfort and connection.

Change is brewing on our screens, and it’s one that’s bound to stir emotions for loyal ABC News Breakfast viewers.

In a surprising turn of events that has left many viewers reaching for their morning cuppa for comfort, Michael Rowland, the familiar face of ABC News Breakfast, has announced his departure from the show.



After a remarkable 15-year tenure that has made him a staple of Australian morning television, Rowland is set to leave his post. His final appearance is scheduled for 13 December.

The announcement shocked many, especially since it was clear that ABC executives had hoped Rowland would continue his role into next year.


However, during the program's 7:45 a.m. segment, Rowland candidly explained his decision to his audience.

‘I have some news to announce—and the teams here, they know this news already—I’m leaving News Breakfast at the end of next week. I’m sorry to the viewers out there for the short notice, but I’m not one for long and drawn-out farewells,’ he said.

‘I am looking forward to a break and spending more time with my family. My beautiful children were seven and five, respectfully, when I started the show, and they’re now in their 20s.’

‘There has been an enormous amount of family sacrifice that has gone on to enable me to do the job for 15 years, so looking forward to spending time with them and my beautiful wife, Nicky, as well.’



Rowland's journey with the ABC began in 1987, and his ascent to co-host of News Breakfast in 2010 marked a significant milestone in his career.



The early morning starts have taken their toll. Rowland openly shared that the gruelling schedule has been a factor in his decision to step back.

‘I love working on News Breakfast. Every morning is a buzz, and it’s by far the best job I’ve had at the ABC,’ he added.

‘But after 15 years of 3 am starts my body is screaming “Enough!” and so, too, is my wife. The hours have finally caught up with me.’



While Rowland's departure marks the end of an era for News Breakfast, it is not a goodbye to the ABC.

He has revealed plans to return to the national broadcaster in mid-2025 to work on 'exciting projects.'

The news of Rowland's exit comes after his longtime former co-host, Lisa Millar, also stepped down from the show.

Millar, who joined Rowland on the News Breakfast couch in 2018, has since shifted her focus to hosting roles on the primetime shows Back Roads and Muster Dogs.

Rowland announced on-air that he would step down with a ‘heavy heart’, revealing that ABC had requested he remain in the role until the next federal election.

‘That may not be until May...I’ve decided that now is the right time,’ he explained.
Do you have any favourite memories of Rowland's time on News Breakfast? How has his reporting impacted your mornings over the years? Let us know in the comments below!