Ray Hadley's 20-Year Reign Dethroned: Radio Ratings Reveal Stunning Third-Place Finish

In a shock twist, Ray Hadley has come in second in the radio ratings after recording 20 consecutive years in the number one spot.

Hadley addressed the loss live on air this morning. “As winners for 20 years, we’ve tried to be dignified and today we’ll deal with this in exactly the same way”.

The top spot was won by WSFM with a 12.7 share, up 0.6 points from the last ratings session. Hadley’s morning program came in third with a share of 11.1 down 1.3 points from last session.

“So the record now stands at 160. I offer my sincere congratulations to music station WSFM who have won the morning slot,” said Hadley.

“A huge congratulations to WSFM for becoming Sydney’s #1 station overall for the first time ever, while also taking out #1 overall in Mornings, Afternoon and Drive. This milestone reflects the dedication, passion, and exceptional talent that drives the entire team – from Jonesy & Amanda, whose unique connection with listeners has made them one of Sydney’s favourite breakfast shows, to Ugly Phil and Steve Fitton, who have both achieved #1 in their timeslots with their unbeatable daytime presence, along with the entire crew behind the scenes. These incredible results showcase the continued momentum we’re building and is a well-deserved recognition of the team’s dedication to delivering outstanding content to our audience,” said Duncan Campbell, ARN chief content officer.

WSFM content director, Mike Byrne said: “This is the first time in the history of 2WS / WSFM that the station has been the clear number 1 overall so it’s a truly historic day for the team both on air and off, and its loyal listeners. I couldn’t be prouder of the entire team who have worked so hard to craft a radio station that resonates with Sydney. Today’s results reflect that hard work”.

The news comes just days after Hadley announced his retirement from radio. Hadley made the announcement live on air last week, saying that he had “ achieved far more than I ever thought I would.”

“My own four children made many sacrifices for me over the years, allowing me to realise my ambitions, and I want to spend more time with them and my seven grandchildren. Sophie has been the most supporting, calming, loving and amazing wife – and she deserves a break too!” he said last week.

“I’ve had the ride of my life at 2GB for more than 23 years, firstly under the ownership of John Singleton and more recently with Nine Entertainment and Nine Radio. I leave the network with me, owing 2GB of everything for my success and longevity. I wish all my colleagues continued success,” said Hadley.

“We’ll likely never see another broadcaster of Ray’s versatility, longevity and ratings success. While the 2GB listeners will miss that familiar jingle and voice at 9am every day, I’m sure they wish Ray all the best in retirement with Sophie and the family,” said Nine Radio’s managing director, Tom Malone.

In his address this morning, he made it very clear that the ratings were in no way in his mind when he had announced his retirement last year.

“Looks like my timing was good, I’d hate to have come here today, in light of being beaten for the first time in 20 years and say ‘oh by the way, I’m bailing on December 13’. So there is some common sense, even though it wasn’t done for those reasons,” Hadley said.