Tony Armstrong has announced he’s leaving ABC’s News Breakfast.
Live on-air during today’s (September 24) broadcast, Tony shared the news that he had “retired from News Breakfast”.
“I just want to thank Brekky and the broader ABC News team for welcoming me in with open arms and helping me grow over the past few years,” Tony said.
“[It] feels like I’ve been on a bit of a rocket ship … I love live TV and those moments that are unplanned and unpredictable where anything can happen,” he continued.
“I’ve been so lucky to be surrounded by an incredible team and it’s those friendships that I’m going to cherish the most.”
News Breakfast co-host Michael Rowland instantly paid tribute to Tony and said:
“I am so sorry three years of talking sport and swapping gags with Tony is about to end.
“He is an engaging colleague and a good friend.”
Co-host Bridget Brennan then added:
“Everyone at News Breakfast is going to miss his infectious and caring nature.
“I know it’s meant so much to me and to thousands upon thousands of First Nations viewers waking up to see Tony representing us on the daily.”
Tony’s final day at News Breakfast will be Friday, October 4 – just over a week from today.
However, the proud Gamilaroi man won’t be leaving the network; he’s set to host a new show for the ABC in 2025.
Details about this new show have not yet been announced though.
Tony only began a career in media in 2020.
Prior to that, the 34-year-old was a professional AFL player and played for several teams including the Adelaide Crows, Sydney Swans, and Collingwood Magpies.
Tony joined News Breakfast in 2021, replacing Paul Kennedy as the sports reporter.
During his time at News Breakfast, Tony won the Graham Kennedy Award for Most Popular New Talent at the 2022 Logie Awards, the Bert Newton Award for Most Popular Presenter at the 2023 Logie Awards and was nominated for the prestigious Gold Logie at this year’s awards.