Sydney's Triple M breakfast radio program The Grill Team has seen a solid increase in ratings since the appointment of rugby league identity Matty Johns.
According to the latest Neilson's ratings report, since the inclusion of Matty Johns five months ago the show has hit six points in the Sydney market, an increase of 1.3 points and is now ranked the third most popular show for FM breakfast.
Johns joins former rugby league player Mark Geyer and TV and radio personality Gus Worland on The Grill Team.
Matty Johns previously worked with the Nine Network on The Footy Show and as a commentator on Channel 9's rugby league coverage. He was stood down in 2009 after revelations he was involved in a sexual assault investigation from 2002 with 11 other teammates. In 2010, he signed a deal with Channel 7 and began The Matty Johns Show.
In terms of a resurgence in the popularity of his identity, Sydney general manager of Souther Cross Austereo Adam Lang said: “We have certainly seen his popularity grow in a new medium which is radio and we firmly believe he is a star. The last three Neilson surveys are proof to that".
“The Grill Team has seen a significant increase in Sydney breakfast, the boys have hit their stride with Matty Johns, Mark Geyer and Gus Worland providing a stellar combination. The show sounds sensational and with their antics and sporting expertise plus a unique twist on daily topics is certainly resonating with listeners.
“Reg Regan has returned to the public eye with hilarious segments on the show adding to a multitude of characters that are part of The Grill Team family and now available in a weekly podcast."
This result comes as AdNews reported yesterday on an overall trend in commercial radio ratings, which are seeing an increased hold on the market as wider economic and political issues influence their listening habits.
Matty Johns is also supporting the “R U OK Day”, a mental health initiative that launches tomorrow. There is also speculation that Johns may return to television in 2012.
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