ABC host Tony Armstrong stuns fans with unrecognisable new look

Much-loved ABC News Breakfast host Tony Armstrong surprised viewers on Monday morning when he unveiled a brand new look.

The former Australian rules footballer, who joined the morning program in June 2020, has gained a legion of fans for his signature moustache and shaggy long hair.

However, Tony now looks barely recognisable after shaving his iconic facial hair and trimming his long locks.

The sports presenter, who occasionally appears on The Project desk, explained to viewers that he decided to cut his hair at the request of his mother.

“She sent me a text [saying], ‘You would make me feel much better if you shaved your face and got a haircut,’ and I was like, ‘Okay’,” he detailed.

Several ABC viewers quickly took to social media to share their thoughts on the 32-year-old’s transformation, which left many in shock.

“What a surprise waking up to seeing you without your beautiful head of hair Tony,” one person tweeted.

“Who’s the new bloke doing the sports news, and where is Tony?” another remarked, followed by someone else who said, “Who’s the new sports reporter? Sounds like Tony but looks nothing like him!”

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“Tony, Tony, Tony, what have you done mate?” a different user asked, with a fifth adding, “Did Tony lose a bet? We want his curls back!”

“Mondays are hard enough without waking to find Tony got a haircut. I’m calling in sick, I can’t do today,” someone joked.

“I’m anxious about Tony’s haircut. I feel like I should have had a warning,” another commented.

Meanwhile, a number of fans tweeted that they were big fans of his haircut and he looks “damn hot”.

“I loved your wild locks. I was a bit shocked when I saw your new haircut this morning but that was only because it was such a radical change. Looks good Tony! And I suspect your hair will be easier to care for with less knots and less product needed to tame it,” one viewer shared.

Another social media user also predicted that the transformation could have to do with a future TV gig handing out roses.

“Breakfast News, keep an eye on Tony and his ‘coffees’ with Osher Günsberg. Haircut = The new Bachelor?” they wrote.

Tony’s new look comes shortly after it was announced that he will be hosting a new show in 2022 titled A Dog’s World.

The three-part series, which was announced at ABC’s Upfronts event last week, will document the loving relationship between humans and dogs.

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