ABC Radio presenter Virginia Trioli announces major life change: 'I've finally come out of the closet'

ABC Radio Melbourne presenter Virginia Trioli has stunned her fans with her bold new look, after treating herself to a stylish makeover.

The veteran radio host, 60, recently shared a clip to social media which captured her at a local salon, as she excitedly told fans she was 'coming out of the closet' as she got her straight, jet-black hair made over into a stunning perm.

Virginia has said goodbye to her perfectly straight jet-black hair and in its place sports elegant curls, which add volume, bounce, and a modern twist to her signature look. 

The new style frames her face beautifully, giving her a youthful, fresh vibe that fans quickly praised online. 

She told followers that her hairdo was a major life change.

'After years of being locked in the straight closet, I've finally come out as curly. I've been stuck in there, so I am now out, proudly... I am curly,' Virginia excitedly told fans.

Many of Virginia's followers took to the comments section to share their appreciation over her new look.

'Looks fabulous,' one person gushed and a second added: 'Yaas queen. I knew there was something missing.' 

Virginia is a respected journalist and broadcaster known for her sharp insights and engaging on-air presence. 

In August 2023, she sensationally quit her ABC Radio Melbourne morning show, as she planned a return to TV.

Her departure came just months after she returned to the station following a lengthy hiatus caused by a 'long and complex summer of family illness'.

'Before I returned to work here in April after my long break over summer, I informed my managers here at ABC Radio Melbourne that I needed to step down from this position presenting mornings on this station,' she announced.

'I now find myself at that stage of life that requires me to live and to work in a different way.'

In March 2023, the presenter took to social media to explain her absence after confused fans questioned when she would return.

Virginia said she felt she couldn't commit to the gruelling early morning hours of her radio show when her priorities were elsewhere. 

'Some personal news: it's been a long and complex summer of family illness, and my focus needs to be on home for now,' she wrote.

'To my wonderful ABC Melbourne Mornings audience: I'll see you very soon, and many thanks to my ABC colleagues and management for their kindness and support.'

She previously hosted Sunday Arts, Artscape and Q&A with well-placed sources telling the publication the ABC was developing a new prime-time show for her.

The experienced journalist went into the ABC radio job in October 2019, switching from a role as News Breakfast TV co-host.