A Farewell to a Familiar Face: Michael Rowland Departs ABC After Nearly Four Decades
After an impressive 39-year tenure, beloved Australian journalist Michael Rowland has announced his departure from the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC). The veteran reporter, most recently known for his role as National Affairs correspondent and a long-time presenter on News Breakfast, shared the news with viewers and followers this morning, marking the end of an era for many.
Rowland, who began his career at the ABC at the tender age of 18, expressed that the decision, while difficult, is the right one for him and his family. He revealed on News Breakfast that his wife, Nicki, has been unwell over the past year.
“I’m wanting to spend more time with her and family and move at a gentler pace,” Rowland explained on the program, where he spent 15 years as a familiar and calming presence for early morning viewers.
He later took to his Instagram account to provide further clarification, aiming to dispel any misconceptions about his wife’s health. Addressing some “headlines” that suggested she was gravely ill, Rowland shared a recent photograph of the couple, taken just days prior, as “proof of life.”
“Yes, Nicki has been unwell over the last year or so, but is well and truly bouncing back,” he wrote, reassuring his audience that while there was a period of ill health, she is now on the mend.
In his initial Instagram post detailing his departure, Rowland reflected on his extensive career. “News just in… After 39 years, I am leaving the ABC. It’s not easy walking away from my professional home of the last nearly four decades, but in so many respects this is the right decision for me and my family,” he stated.
The journalist also shared a nostalgic image from his very first day at the ABC, highlighting the incredible journey he has undertaken since starting as a young cadet. “I am tremendously grateful for the opportunities the ABC has given me since,” he continued. “I’ve done everything from the overnight police rounds shift as a cadet to presenting various national TV programs.”
Rowland’s dedication to the national broadcaster has been evident throughout his career. “In return, I have devoted literally most of my life to the ABC and I am now keen to move on to the next stage – and spend more time with family and friends.”
His time as a co-host of News Breakfast, from 2010 until December 2024, endeared him to a vast audience. Viewers appreciated not only his steady and composed demeanour during breaking news but also his well-timed puns and signature “dad jokes,” which often brought a touch of light-heartedness to the morning news.
As he bids farewell, Rowland extended his gratitude to the ABC audience. “I want to say a huge thank you to the ABC audience for watching, listening and reading over the years,” his announcement concluded. “Hopefully, I’ve left you all just a bit more informed from the thousands of stories I’ve reported and presented, and a bit brighter from my dubious gags on breakfast TV. I’ve loved it all.”
Rowland’s final day at the ABC will be at the end of this week. He indicated that he plans to work casually or part-time in the immediate future, allowing him the flexibility to spend more time with his loved ones.
The news of his departure has prompted an outpouring of well wishes from industry peers. Peter Hitchener from Nine Network congratulated Rowland, stating, “Congratulations Michael on everything you have achieved. Always the professional that you are. Thank you for being my friend and I look forward to catching up again soon.”
Comedian Sammy J offered his congratulations, calling it a “huge decision, huge congrats. The outside world awaits.” James Glenday, who has taken over as co-host of News Breakfast, shared his sentiments, saying, “You will be missed mate. Thanks for everything, even the Dad jokes.”
Michael Rowland’s departure marks the end of a significant chapter in Australian television journalism, and his presence will undoubtedly be missed by colleagues and viewers alike.
