acting on doctors’ advice, Alan Jones will step down as the host of the 2GB and 4BC breakfast program at the end of May.
He will be replaced by Ben Fordham.
During his broadcast this morning Jones told listeners: “We are living in the world of Coronavirus. The most repeated statement we hear is ‘we must listen to the experts’.
“Well, the experts are telling me in no uncertain terms, and not for the first time I might add, ‘continuing with the present workload is seriously detrimental to your health’.
“I have listened to the experts and I am taking this opportunity to indicate to my radio family that I will be retiring from radio at the end of this month.”
During a career that has spanned 35 years behind the microphone, Alan Jones has more often than not dominated the breakfast radio timeslot, recording an unequalled 226 survey wins.
“Alan Jones has a unique place in Australian media,” said Peter Costello, Chairman of Nine. “His ratings record makes him the outstanding broadcaster of his generation. His ratings record will never be matched.”
Nine’s CEO Hugh Marks said: “I want to acknowledge Alan for his contribution to 2GB, and prior to that 2UE, over many years.
“This focus on his program’s content has given him outstanding audience loyalty demonstrated over decades. We wish him well and thank him for all he has done.”
“Alan’s radio career is without peer,” said Tom Malone Nine’s Managing Director – Radio.
“Alan is a giant of Australian radio. We look forward to celebrating his soaring achievements at the appropriate time. We wish him well and thank him for everything he has achieved.”
Jones will be continuing to broadcast on Sky News and will also continue writing for The Daily Telegraph and The Australian.
On Fordham stepping into Jones’ shoes, Malone said: “We are delighted that Ben is stepping up to host 2GB’s breakfast program.
“For decades 2GB’s breakfast show has set the agenda for Sydney and the country, and Ben will continue this great legacy and bring his unique energy to the show.”
Nine also confirmed it would look to introduce a local breakfast program to 4BC in Brisbane. An announcement on this will be made in due course.
“With Ben in Breakfast, Ray Hadley in Mornings – broadcasting to more than 30 stations across the country, Deb Knight in Afternoons, and a new Drive host to be announced, we know we have the right team to build on 2GB’s great position as the #1 radio station in Sydney.” said Malone.
“Meanwhile in Brisbane we know 4BC deserves a local breakfast program and we will be making an announcement on this in the coming weeks.”
