Tony Armstrong to leave ABC News Breakfast

After three years in the role, the Gold Logie nominee has announced his departure, effective October.

After three years in the role, popular ABC presenter Tony Armstrong has announced his departure from ABC News Breakfast, effective October. Picture: James Gourley/Getty Images for TV WEEK

After three years in the role, popular ABC presenter Tony Armstrong has announced his departure from ABC News Breakfast, effective October.

Armstrong quickly rose to fame during his time with the program, becoming known for his easygoing charm, which resonated with viewers and led to success at the Logie Awards.

Armstrong won the Graham Kennedy Award for Most Popular New Talent at the 2022 Logie Awards, followed by the 2023 Bert Newton Award for Most Popular Presenter. He was also short-listed for the Gold Logie earlier this year.

In a brief speech on the show, Armstrong said, “I’ve been pretty nervous about doing this,” before stating he had retired from News Breakfast. He thanked everyone for their help and support, adding, “Feels like I’ve been on a bit of a rocket ship.”

Some sad news with Tony announcing he is leaving News Breakfast at the end of next week. 😢

I am so sorry three years of talking sport and swapping gags with him is about to end. Tony has brightened so many mornings.

Can’t wait to see what’s next, mate! @Tonaaayy_pic.twitter.com/NVEHWSVtFg

— Michael Rowland (@mjrowland68) September 23, 2024

Armstrong expressed gratitude to the team, stating, “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.”

ABC Director of News Justin Stevens praised Armstrong, stating, “Tony Armstrong is a once in a generation talent and it has been fantastic watching him soar in his role at News Breakfast. I can’t wait to see what he does into the future and see his career continue to go from strength to strength.”

The former AFL player first joined News Breakfast as a fill-in sports presented in 2020 before taking on the role full-time the following year.

ABC presenter Tony Armstrong said his time with ABC News Breakfast felt like “I’ve been on a bit of a rocket ship.” Picture: Supplied/ABC.

He has hosted several ABC series, such as A Dog’s World and Tony Armstrong’s Extraordinary Things.

Reflecting on his time, Armstrong remarked, “I love live TV and those moments that are unplanned and unpredictable where anything can happen. 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.”

Armstrong will continue to work with ABC network, hosting a new show set for release in 2025. His final day on News Breakfast will be Friday 4 October.