In a jaw-dropping twist that’s shaking up Canadian morning television, Breakfast Television (BT) has unveiled its newest co-hosts: Dina Pugliese and Tim Bolen.
Announced on March 17, 2025, the dynamic duo will step into the spotlight starting Monday, bringing a mix of nostalgia, fresh energy, and undeniable chemistry to the iconic Toronto morning show.
This bombshell revelation comes hot on the heels of a dramatic shakeup that saw former hosts Sid Seixeiro and Meredith Shaw abruptly exit just a month ago.
But that’s not all—Pugliese isn’t just returning to her hosting roots; she’s also stepping up as co-executive producer, while Bolen ditches CHCH in Hamilton for the big leagues at Rogers Campus.
This is the TV comeback story you didn’t see coming!
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Dina Pugliese’s Triumphant Return to Breakfast Television
For fans of Breakfast Television, Dina Pugliese is a name that needs no introduction.
A beloved figure in Canadian media, Pugliese first captured hearts when she joined BT as co-host in 2006 alongside Kevin Frankish.
For 16 incredible years, she became the face of Toronto mornings, delivering laughter, connection, and positivity to viewers across the country.
Her departure in February 2023 left a void that many thought could never be filled—until now.
“I’m honestly the most shocked person in the room about this,” Pugliese admitted in a candid statement.
“Life has a funny way of surprising you, doesn’t it? After two years of stepping back to recharge, coming back to BT feels like slipping into my favorite comfy slippers. It’s a privilege to return to what gave my life meaning for nearly two decades—connecting with YOU, our amazing viewers. I’m beyond excited to brighten your mornings again!”
And brighten them she will.
Pugliese isn’t just reclaiming her spot behind the desk; she’s taking on a bigger role as co-executive producer, promising to shape the show’s future with her signature flair.
But why return now?
After leaving BT in 2023 to take a well-deserved break, Pugliese explored other ventures, including hosting Canada’s Got Talent and popping up across various Canadian media platforms.
Her hiatus gave her time to reflect, recharge, and rediscover her passion for morning television.
“It’s a gift,” she said, “to come back to a show that’s been such a huge part of my life and the lives of our viewers.”
Tim Bolen: From Hamilton to Toronto’s Bright Lights
Joining Pugliese is Tim Bolen, a seasoned broadcaster whose name has long been synonymous with CHCH Television in Hamilton.
Bolen’s journey to Breakfast Television is a classic tale of hard work paying off.
Starting his career with Rogers Sports and Media, he leaped CHCH (a Channel Zero division) in September 2011.
There, he wore multiple hats—hosting Morning Live: First Edition at the ungodly hour of 4 a.m. ET, anchoring News Now and becoming a morning staple for Hamilton viewers.
In early 2025, Bolen dropped a bombshell of his own: he was leaving CHCH after over a decade of service.
Little did fans know he was gearing up for a major career glow-up.
Now, he’s stepping onto the Breakfast Television stage, ready to co-host alongside Pugliese and bring his infectious energy to a national audience.
“For 35 years, BT has been the gold standard for morning TV in Canada,” Bolen said in a statement that’s already lighting up social media.
“So many legendary hosts have come before me, and I’m humbled to add my name to that list. But the real thrill? Teaming up with Dina Pugliese in her epic comeback! I’ve been a fan of hers for years, and when we met, the chemistry was instant. We’re going to turn that spark into a giant ray of sunshine for everyone waking up with us.”
Bolen’s move from Hamilton to Toronto marks a significant shift, both for him and for BT.
Known for his versatility and down-to-earth charm, he’s poised to complement Pugliese perfectly, creating a duo that’s already generating buzz as “must-watch TV.”
A New Era at a New Location
The arrival of Pugliese and Bolen isn’t the only big change at Breakfast Television.
The show is packing up and moving to a brand-new set at the Rogers Campus on 333 Bloor Street East, a stone’s throw from its old digs at 33 Dundas Street East.
Since 2009, BT has called the downtown Toronto location home, but this Monday marks a fresh start in more ways than one.
“Last day at 33 Dundas St E studio!” BT weather reporter Frank Ferragine tweeted on March 17, 2025.
“Monday kicks off a new studio, a new building, a new show—and a few surprises, too!”
The relocation also sees sister stations CityNews and OMNI Television joining BT at the Rogers Campus, consolidating Rogers Sports & Media’s presence in the heart of Toronto.
The timing couldn’t be more dramatic. Just days before the move, BT auctioned off its iconic white couch from the Dundas Street set, with all proceeds benefiting the Jays Care Foundation.
It’s a symbolic farewell to the past and a bold step into the future—one that Pugliese and Bolen will lead with gusto.
The Shakeup That Set the Stage
If this all feels like a whirlwind, it’s because it is.
The announcement of Pugliese and Bolen as BT’s new hosts comes just a month after the shocking dismissal of Sid Seixeiro and Meredith Shaw.
The pair had been at the helm since 2023, with Shaw stepping in after Pugliese’s initial exit.
Their sudden departure in February 2025 sent shockwaves through the industry, leaving fans wondering what was next for the beloved morning show.
In the interim, sports, and entertainment guru Devo Brown and CityNews host Melanie Ng stepped up to keep BT afloat.
Their stint was a hit, but it’s clear Rogers had bigger plans brewing behind the scenes.
The reveal of Pugliese and Bolen—coupled with the new studio debut—feels like a calculated move to reclaim BT’s spot as Canada’s top morning show.
“New desk, new hosts? Don’t miss BT on Monday, March 17th when ALL will be revealed,” the show teased in a video posted to X on Wednesday, building anticipation to fever-pitch levels.
What’s Next for Breakfast Television?
With Pugliese back in the driver’s seat (and behind the scenes as co-executive producer) and Bolen bringing his fresh perspective, Breakfast Television is poised for a renaissance.
The show has been a Toronto institution for over 35 years, evolving with the times while staying true to its mission of delivering news, entertainment, and a dose of morning cheer.
The move to the Rogers Campus signals a broader shift in local media, mirroring recent changes like CP24’s relocation to CTV’s Scarborough campus in 2024.
BT’s bold relaunch feels like a beacon of hope for viewers craving stability and excitement in their morning routine.
Mark your calendars for Monday, March 17, 2025, when Pugliese and Bolen take the reins at Breakfast Television’s new Rogers Campus studio.
Will they live up to the hype?
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