Toronto’s beloved morning show, Breakfast Television, has seen significant changes with the departure of co-hosts Sid Seixeiro and Meredith Shaw. This surprise announcement came during the Monday morning broadcast when fellow host, Devo Brown, shared the news with viewers. "They brought us plenty of great conversations, laughs, and unforgettable moments. We’re grateful for everything they shared with all of us," Brown said, expressing both gratitude and sadness over their exit.
Seixeiro, who joined Breakfast Television (BT) in early 2021, took to social media to confirm the end of his tenure. "Thanks for letting meinto your homes and for being so kind. Also, thank you to @Rogers for over 13 years of support. They allowed me incredible freedom on-air and I’m grateful," he wrote on X, previously known as Twitter. His heartfelt message reflected years of dedication to the program.
Similarly, Shaw, who stepped onto the BT stage just last year, also shared her emotional parting on Instagram. "Not gonna lie, this is hard. Deep breath. Thank you for welcoming meinto your homes & hearts. Cohosting @breakfasttelevision with @sid_seixeiro has been such an honour and I’m so proud of the television we have made," she said, conveying her pride and sadness at the sudden upheaval.
Brown also addressed the show's audience directly, stating, "Change is never easy, but for over 35 years Breakfast Television has grown and evolved to bring you the best to start your day. So stay tuned; we have some exciting plans in the works to share with you very soon." This suggests the network is considering major alterations to the morning program, which has been integral to many Canadians’ daily routines.
The departures of Seixeiro and Shaw come on the heels of previous changes at Citytv, as the network recently let go of veteran anchors, Tracy Moore and Cheryl Hickey. Their plans for creating a new national hour of BT were also scrapped, leaving many to wonder about the direction of the show.
Across social platforms, viewers expressed their displeasure and sadness at this news. One viewer remarked, "So disappointed with BT for getting rid of Sid and Meredith Shaw. I loved them; they were funny and always put a smile on my face in the mornings.” Such emotional responses highlight the strong connection audiences have forged with the hosts over the years.
The spokesperson for Rogers Sports & Media confirmed the changes, stating, "We’re invested in 'Breakfast Television's success and leadershipin Canadian morning television, and we’ll announce exciting new plansin the coming weeks." This statement indicates intentions to rejuvenate the program but raises questions about the fate of longtime fans.
Seixeiro previously transitioned to BT from Sportsnet, where he had co-hosted the show Tim & Sid. His time on BT was characterized by a vibrant energy and comedic charm, winning him many fans among the morning audience. Shaw's entry to BT was celebrated, as she joined after the long-standing host, Dina Pugliese, left for personal reasons. The duo had aimed to bring new flavor to the morning routine but now, their partnership has ended abruptly.
Community sentiments are running high, with several users expressing negative feedback about the network’s decision. One fan tweeted, "I’m so sad to see @Sid_Seixeiro and @meredithshaw go. That’s such a crappy move by the network.” Responses like these indicate strong viewer loyalty to the co-hosts and dissatisfaction with management decisions.
Speculation surrounds what changes Rogers Sports & Media might implement moving forward. With the rise of digital content delivery, traditional television networks like Citytv are increasingly challenged to adapt and maintain their viewer base. The uncertainty of the morning show creates both excitement and apprehension among its fans.
Shaw concluded her Instagram farewell with warm sentiments for her viewers, saying, "I hope I did you proud, I hope you saw me up there on your television and felt seen. I hope you know how much I cherish every conversation I have with you." Such statements attest not just to her professionalism but also her personal engagement with the audience over the past year.
Despite this shakeup, the show’s future could hold bright possibilities. Viewers, no doubt, will be eager for any updates on who will take the reins of BT moving forward and how the show plans to transform. And whether potential new hosts can replicate the chemistry and warmth established by Seixeiro and Shaw remains to be seen. Amid the uncertainty, one thing is clear: the influences of Seixeiro and Shaw on Breakfast Television have left lasting impressions on viewers.