Revealed: The rising star tipped to take over Michael Rowland’s plum ABC News Breakfast hosting gig

A rising media star has been tipped to replace ABC News Breakfast host Michael Rowland after his shock on-air resignation on Monday.

ABC’s 7pm newsreader James Glenday is the most likely candidate to step into the role, according to The Sydney Morning Herald.

Glenday has frequently appeared as a fill-in host on the program and is finishing up his role as a newsreader in Canberra in the coming weeks.

The veteran reporter has a wealth of political and field experience, having worked as both a Europe and US Correspondent for the ABC during his time with the network. 

When approached for comment, an ABC spokesperson told the publication it’s ‘too early to confirm the 2025 line-up’. 

Michael, 55, broke the shock news of his departure to viewers on Monday morning, revealing his last show would be on Friday, December 13.

‘I’m leaving News Breakfast,’ Rowland announced.

‘I’m sorry to the viewers out there for the short notice. I’m not one for long and drawn out farewells and I wanted minimal fuss.

‘I love the job, it’s the best job I’ve had in the ABC. In fact, anywhere. But after 15 years of 3am starts my body is screaming “enough!”. And so too is my wife.

‘It’s been an immense privilege to be here for 15 years presenting the news to our viewers. That, to me, has been by far the most important part of the job.’

The veteran journalist anchored the 100th anniversary of the Gallipoli landings and coverage of the death of Queen Elizabeth II.

Rowland has also served as Lateline’s economics correspondent and state political reporter in both New South Wales and Victoria.

Justin Stevens, the ABC’s news director, said in a statement: ‘Michael has been central to News Breakfast’s success over the past 15 years, a familiar and trusted face for viewers each morning.

‘His ability to traverse serious reporting as well as lighter topics, and do it on live TV for three hours every morning, shows what a hugely talented broadcaster he is. 

‘We’ll miss him a lot on the News Brekky couch but we can’t wait to see what he does next for the ABC after a well-deserved rest.’

Meanwhile, Rowland’s ABC News Breakfast co-host Bridget Brennan said it has been ‘an honour and a privilege’ sitting alongside him.

‘I’ve been able to watch firsthand his enduring dedication to strong journalism and public service,’ Brennan said in a statement.

‘After 15 years, Australians will miss his presence each and every morning enormously, but I know we all appreciate the incredible effort he has given to News Breakfast for such a long time.

‘Michael, I hope this next chapter brings long sleep-ins and more time to stay up late and watch your beloved Doggies!’