Dina Pugliese has made her return to Citytv’s Breakfast Television (BT) after a two-year break from morning TV.
Pugliese, who previously ended a 16-year run with the show in February 2023, has been named co-host and co-executive producer. She returns following the network’s release of Sid Seixeiro and Meredith Shaw last month.
Pugliese will be joined by co-host Tim Bolen, who has been a host and anchor on the morning show on Hamilton’s CHCH-TV for the past 13 years, in addition to Devo Brown, Melanie Ng, Frank Ferragine (aka Frankie Flowers), Caryn Ceolin and Tammie Sutherland.
When she walked away from the show in 2023, Pugliese told viewers she’d been suffering burnout, in part due to the physical and mental toll of long hours during the pandemic, in addition to her longstanding early morning wake-up call.
“You will find NO ONE more surprised about this news than me! It’s crazy how life works sometimes,” the host said in a Citytv announcement. “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!”
“For over 35 years, BT has set the benchmark for morning television,” added Bolen. “Many incredible hosts have paved the way, and I feel truly privileged to add my name alongside them. But the real pinch-me moment? Getting to co-host with the best in her triumphant return! I’ve admired Dina for years and from the moment we connected, the TV spark was undeniable. I know we’ll turn that into a big yellow bulb of sunshine for audiences to wake up with.”
BT has also unveiled a new studio set as Citytv bids farewell to its former digs at Yonge and Dundas, where it’s been broadcasting from the heart of Toronto since 2009. Citytv is joining Rogers Sports & Media’s other radio and television properties at its Bloor St. campus.
BT airs live weekdays from 6 to 10 a.m. ET on Citytv and Citytv+ in Ontario, with a national hour available in all Citytv markets starting at 8:30 a.m. ET.
“More than ever, people are looking for comfort, optimism, a uniquely Canadian perspective, and a sense of joy in the mornings – and no one delivers that better than Dina and Tim,” said Claire Adams, BT’s executive producer. “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.”
