Michael Rowland, a familiar face on ABC News Breakfast, has announced his departure from the beloved morning show, leaving viewers and colleagues surprised.
After a remarkable 15-year tenure, Rowland is set to bid farewell to the early morning program. His last appearance is scheduled for Tuesday, December 13.
The announcement caught many off-guard as Rowland explained his decision to leave despite the network’s desire for him to stay on for another year.
‘I’m leaving News Breakfast…. I’m sorry to the viewers out there for the short notice, but I’m not one for long and drawn-out farewells,’ he shared.
Rowland’s (in navy blue) career in journalism stretches back to the ‘90s.
Rowland’s journey with the ABC began in 1987, and he has been a staple on the News Breakfast couch since 2010.
His departure is not just a career move but a personal one, as he looks forward to reclaiming time for his family.
‘My beautiful children were 7 and 5 respectfully when I started the show and they’re now in their 20s,’ Rowland reflected. He expressed a heartfelt desire to spend more time with his wife, Nicola Webber, and their two adult children.
‘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. But after 15 years of 3am starts my body is screaming “Enough!”, and so, too, is my wife. The hours have finally caught up with me,’ he added.
He also shared that ABC requested him to stay at least until the next federal election, however, he did not relent.
‘That may not be until May… I’ve decided that now is the right time,’ he said.
But is it a final farewell for News Breakfast viewers?
Fans of Rowland need not worry as he will remain with the ABC and is set to return in mid-2025 to work on ‘exciting projects’. This transition mirrors that of his former co-host, Lisa Millar, who also left News Breakfast but continued her relationship with the ABC through other programs.
Source: YouTube/ABC News (Australia)
Many things can be said about Rowland’s exit from the ABC morning program, and for one, his decision to prioritise his own well-being and family time is a powerful message.
How do you feel about Rowland’s departure from News Breakfast? Let us know in the comments below!
