ABC supplied
Following the news that Michael Rowland is departing ABC News Breakfast, ABC has announced who is taking his spot — and Tony Armstrong’s.
Friday, December 13 will be the last broadcast of steadfast breakfast news anchor Michael Rowland on the morning news show. He has been a presenter at News Breakfast for close to 15 years.
The new line-up for the breakfast couch has been announced by the national broadcaster live on air.
James Glenday is set to join Bridget Brennan on ABC News Breakfast as Michael’s replacement. James has been friends with his new co-anchor since his very first day on the job when he joined ABC as a cadet in Darwin in 2010. Most recently, James has been the 7pm nightly news presenter for the Canberra region. He has been a frequent sub-in for Michael over the years, and now it’s his time to take on the role full-time.
“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,” said James in a statement.
“ABC News Breakfast is the natural place for the biggest names in Australia to come to share their news and stories. I can’t wait to begin work with the very talented team.”
Catherine Murphy is set to replace outgoing Tony Armstrong as the show’s full-time Sports Presenter. Catherine, who is originally from Ireland, is currently in the Irish capital, Dublin, reporting on the Wallabies for Summer Grandstand. She made her start in sports journalism at Ireland’s national broadcaster, RTÉ. She then moved to Australia to work with FoxSports in 2006. Catherine joined the ABC in 2019 and is a frequent radio and television panelist and reporter
“I’m so excited to join the program on a full-time basis,” she said in a statement. “I’ve loved working with the team when I’ve filled in and I’m so excited for 2025. News Breakfast is the only show I’d set my alarm at 3am for. Goodbye midweek social life. I love you so much, but it’s time to break up.”
The new line-up for ABC News Breakfast will be on air from Monday, January 20, 2025.
