Alan Jones is stepping down as host of the 2GB and 4BC breakfast programs at the end of May.
The talkback presenter told listeners this morning his decision came following doctors’ advice.
“We are living in the world of coronavirus. The most repeated statement we hear is ‘we must listen to the experts’,” he said.
“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.”
Jones began his career in 1985 at radio 2UE as morning host, and then moved to 2GB, now owned by Nine, in 2001 where he’s remained since. Over his 35-year career, Jones has dominated the breakfast radio timeslot, with 2GB finishing the year on top in 2019.
Nine chairman Peter Costello says Alan Jones holds a “unique place” in Australian media.
“His ratings record makes him the outstanding broadcaster of his generation. His ratings record will never be matched,” Costello says.
“Alan’s interests across politics, sport, the arts, business, made him a broad and stimulating commentator. He was always passionate and relentless in pursuing issues on behalf of his listeners. And he was tough – as I can attest when I was on the other side of the microphone.
“Away from the microphone, Alan was warm and generous. Many people benefited from his support. He neither advertised nor sought recognition for it. Alan Jones will be given many accolades, and he deserves them. A great career. An outstanding contribution.”
Throughout his career, the host has been surrounded by controversy. Most recently, advertisers boycotted his show after he said Prime Minister Scott Morrison should “shove a sock” down the throat of New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern after her comments on climate change.
“Alan’s radio career is without peer,” says Nine managing director for radio Tom Malone.
“The most telling indicator of his greatness was the switch from 2UE to 2GB – when Alan moved stations and the audience followed in lockstep. Alan did not miss a beat at #1. Sydney’s listeners repaid his advocacy with loyalty – Alan has always put them first.”
“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 continue his work with News Corp Australia across Sky News, The Daily Telegraph and The Australian.
Replacing Jones is Ben Fordham, who has been named as the new host of 2GB’s breakfast program. Fordham, a Walkley award winning journalist, has been host of 2GB’s drivetime slot for almost a decade.
“I feel a sense of both responsibility and opportunity. There’s a huge responsibility in taking over from Alan and the opportunity to bring my own flavour to breakfast,” Fordham says.
Nine will look at introducing a local breakfast program to 4BC in Brisbane.
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