ABC News Breakfast host Lisa Millar quits live on-air after 5 years: 'Huge loss'

ABC presenter Lisa Millar shocked viewers on Wednesday morning when she announced live on-air that she would be leaving ABC News Breakfast. The TV presenter and journalist joined the program in 2018 and became the permanent co-host alongside Michael Rowland the following year.

Lisa told viewers that she would finish up with the show on Friday, August 23, but will continue with her other presenting duties on ABC. She currently narrates the Logie-nominated reality series Muster Dogs, is a guest presenter on Back Roads, and co-hosts the podcast The Newsreader.

“What a blast the past five years has been, whether it was interviewing prime ministers and global thought leaders or getting karaoke encouragement from my childhood idol Gladys Knight,” she said.

“In 35 years of journalism I’ve never done anything so exciting, unpredictable, and fun. It’s only worked because of the awesome team in front of the cameras and behind the scenes who kept me laughing.”

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She went on to thank viewers for allowing her in their homes each morning and said she’s “loved sharing breakfast” with them all.

“I’m excited to hit the road and discover more of the incredible stories that make up the remarkable tapestry of our culture,” she continued. “There are so many adventures ahead, whether it be with Back Roads, Muster Dogs, or new projects we’re cooking up. What a privilege it is to be a part of that future.”

Viewers send their well wishes

Fellow ABC presenter Leigh Sales shared a heartfelt post following Lisa's announcement saying that her departure is a “huge loss” for ABC News Breakfast.

“But what a win for the ABC to be getting more of her work on Back Roads and Muster Dogs,” she shared. “The one thing I know after 25 years working with this woman is whatever she delivers is done with quality, warmth and integrity.

“You get a colleague like Lisa working alongside you once in a lifetime and Michael Rowland @mjrowland68 and the team have benefited hugely from having her there for five years. I’m proud of the amazing job she’s done and can’t wait for the next chapter!”

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Viewers also took to social media to say they were sad to see Lisa go but wished her well on her next adventures.

“Will miss her beautiful face in the mornings! Wishing you all the best with your next project Lisa,” one person wrote, while another added, “Sad Lisa is leaving the breakfast couch, but happy for her!”.

“Lisa is one of the good ones, clever, always informed, prudent and warm. A huge loss. Best wishes. Hope to see more,” a third replied.

“Congratulations Lisa, you’ll be missed. All the best for your future,” someone else commented.

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