Dina Pugliese is back on Breakfast Television (BT) as both co-host and co-executive producer. The Toronto-born television personality returned to BT on Monday morning, March 17, 2025, alongside former CHCH Hamilton broadcaster Tim Bolen. After serving as host for more than 16 years, Pugliese initially resigned from BT in February 2023 to prioritize her health.
Upon her return, Pugliese expressed her surprise and joy, stating, "You will find NO ONE more surprised about this news than me! It’s crazy how life works sometimes. After two years of rest and recharging, it feels like I’m stepping back Into a pair of comfy slippers. It’s such a gift to be able to return to what made my life meaningful for almost 20 years – connecting, sharing, and laughing with YOU, our BT viewers. I can’t wait to continue making mornings brighter together!" This heartfelt sentiment marks her reintegration after what was described as both personal and professional rejuvenation.
Following this announcement, Pugliese flooded her social media with celebratory posts, sharing videos and photos reminiscing about her time spent off-air. Her emotional comeback was met with overwhelming support from fans and colleagues alike. Former Cityline host Tracy Moore chimed in with enthusiasm, saying, "Best news ever!" Cynthia Loyst, co-host of The Social, expressed her happiness as well, alongside numerous fans who voiced their excitement for Pugliese's return to their morning routine. Comments on social platforms ranged from joyful exclamations to expressions of gratitude, affirming her place as a beloved figure on BT.
Pugliese's return aligns with some significant shifts at BT, particularly the high-profile exits of other hosts. Earlier this year, Tracy Moore and Cheryl Hickey saw their anticipated lifestyle show plans scrapped by Citytv. February also witnessed the terminations of BT co-hosts Meredith Shaw and Sid Seixeiro as part of what the network described as the program's "evolution." These changes stirred speculation among the audience about the rationale behind the shake-up, with many wonder if Pugliese's return would have been possible without the departure of those familiar faces.
Many viewers took to social media expressing confusion and concern. One viewer voiced, "So, they fired Meredith and Sid to bring back Dina... would Dina only come back if Sid was fired?" Others tweeted sentiments hinting at underlying issues, referring to the situation as "sad" and questioning the strategy behind the changes. Yet, others simply celebrated the return, with comments like “Welcome back! The days are brighter already,” echoing the shared relief and joy surrounding Pugliese's comeback.
Notably, Claire Adams, BT's executive producer, explained the vision for the newly revamped morning show, emphasizing the desire to provide viewers with a uniquely Canadian perspective. She stated, "Dina is one of the most beloved morning show personalities in the country and her return feels like welcoming back a best friend. Tim's warmth, quick wit, and natural connection with audiences make him the perfect complement to Dina’s vibrant energy." This statement highlights the optimistic direction BT aims to take with the new hosting duo.
After Pugliese's two-year hiatus, during which she explored her interests and launched The Care Principle, her clean beauty line, the decision to return came amid her personal reflections. "I was so burnt out," she recounted, acknowledging the lonely moments and uncertainty during her time away. The pressures of hosting had taken their toll, but they allowed her to reconnect with family and gather perspective on her career and what brought her joy.
Bolen, who himself transitioned from his role as co-host at CHCH Morning Live just months ago, expressed his admiration for Pugliese throughout this new chapter. He remarked, "For over 35 years, BT has set the benchmark for morning television. Many incredible hosts have paved the way, and I feel truly privileged to add my name alongside them. The real pinch-me moment? Getting to co-host with the best."
Finally, the morning show welcomed back familiar faces like Devo Brown and Melanie Ng, who together with Pugliese and Bolen, promise to bring energy and warmth to Canadian mornings. The BT team encourages viewers to re-engage with the revitalized program, fostering optimism and comfort – especially needed during these uncertain times.
Much of the online audience reacted positively, as one tweet summed it up: "Mornings just got so much happier." The return of Dina Pugliese to BT signals not just the return of a familiar figure but also the chance for the program to refresh, embodying the spirit of resilience and positivity it aims to share with Canadians nationwide.
