James Glenday to Replace Michael Rowland on ABC’s News Breakfast
ABC’s News Breakfast has unveiled its new co-host, James Glenday, who will replace Michael Rowland following his departure after 15 years. Glenday, currently the ABC's newsreader in Canberra, will officially step into the role on January 20, 2025. The transition comes after a wave of changes at the network, including the departure of several key figures, such as Tony Armstrong and Lisa Millar. As a familiar face on the program, having filled in for Rowland in recent years, Glenday’s appointment was widely anticipated.
Glenday’s rise to the role comes after years of experience at the ABC, including his previous positions as a foreign correspondent in Europe and North America. Joining News Breakfast alongside Bridget Brennan, who has been with the show since August, Glenday expressed both excitement and nervousness at the prospect of replacing Rowland. “Big shoes to fill,” he acknowledged, humorously adding that he felt a little nervous sitting next to someone as accomplished as Rowland.
The change marks a significant shift in the show’s lineup. Rowland’s final day will be December 13, bringing an end to his tenure that began in 2010. Reflecting on his departure, Rowland shared that the demanding early starts had taken a toll on him, and he was ready for a break. Despite the physical challenges, he said hosting News Breakfast had been an “immense privilege,” with the opportunity to interview a range of influential figures, from political leaders to Hollywood stars.
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For Glenday, the role offers the chance to showcase a variety of skills that were previously constrained by his work as a nightly newsreader. “It’s genuinely a really fun job,” he said, looking forward to the variety that comes with hosting the morning program, which spans serious news, sports, lighter segments, and unexpected moments. Glenday’s approach to the role fits well with his personality, as he thrives in environments where the unpredictable happens and requires constant adaptability.
This new phase for News Breakfast also brings a fresh perspective, particularly with the addition of Catherine Murphy, who will replace Tony Armstrong as the full-time sports presenter. The team will be a mix of experienced journalists and younger faces, with Glenday noting that several of the key figures on the show will be in their late 30s or early 40s. While this could resonate with a broader audience, Glenday stressed that the focus remained on providing the best possible content, regardless of demographics.
Though News Breakfast has consistently ranked behind its competitors, Nine's Today and Seven's Sunrise , in viewership, Glenday believes the program's value lies not only in its audience numbers but in its ability to break stories and secure major interviews. The show’s influence extends beyond the morning broadcast, impacting other ABC platforms throughout the day. Glenday’s appointment signals a new era for the morning show, and viewers can expect to see a dynamic, youthful team that is prepared to tackle the evolving landscape of morning television.
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