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Ray Hadley chokes up during final radio show

<p>Ray Hadley has become emotional during his last show on-air, farewelling his loyal 2GB audience for the last time. </p> <p>Hadley was joined by fellow 2GB host Ben Fordham for his final show on Friday, with Fordham surprising Hadley with a tribute to his stellar career. </p> <p>The tribute spanned Hadley’s entire career, from top sporting moments, interviews with Keith Urban, to his children speaking with him on air.</p> <p>“Ray Hadley, this is your life,” Fordham said before it played.</p> <p>However, Hadley became emotional when a snippet of his mother’s voice was played during the segment.</p> <p>“Very emotional. I had heard my mother’s voice previously,” Hadley told listeners, choked up. “I wasn’t gonna get upset. You’ve done this to me you little bludger.”</p> <p>Earlier this week, Hadley spoke with <em><a href="https://honey.nine.com.au/latest/ray-hadley-retires-from-2gb-sydney-radio-interview-exclusive/354a86f1-eeac-49a2-bc04-a91f3f22ff13" target="_blank" rel="noopener">9Honey</a></em> about his <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/lifestyle/retirement-life/the-time-has-come-ray-hadley-announces-retirement" target="_blank" rel="noopener">retirement</a>, reflecting on his 43-year career.</p> <p>Hadley admitted he worked brutal hours during his illustrious career, with his dedication leading to what became one of the most impressive runs in radio history in Australia.</p> <p>"I've fought hard for every position I've got and a couple were thrust upon me without fighting for them, but once I got them I realised that it was things I liked doing," he told <em>9Honey</em>.</p> <p>"So yeah, it's been an adventure."</p> <p>"Like every adventure, there's highs and lows. The lows are about as low as you can get, the highs are about as high as you can get, and hopefully most of the time is in the middle somewhere."</p> <p>Hadley said while he's "retiring from full-time radio work" he's "not retiring from life" and with his contract set to run with 2GB until 2026 he is considering his options.</p> <p>"That doesn't mean I won't do something else. What that is, I don't know, because I'm still contracted here. And I'm still committed to this station in many respects ... I've been here for 24 years."</p> <p>"So, you know, there's always a part of me that is willing this station and this network to do well," he said.</p> <p>For now, he's planning to take a three-month break "to clear my head."</p> <p><em>Image credits: 2GB</em></p>

Retirement Life

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Ray Hadley announces 2GB replacement

<p>Ray Hadley has announced his replacement on 2GB's morning show, following his shock <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/lifestyle/retirement-life/the-time-has-come-ray-hadley-announces-retirement" target="_blank" rel="noopener">retirement announcement</a> last month. </p> <p>Hadley told listeners live on-air that Mark Levy would be stepping up to the mic as early as next Monday. </p> <p>“That’s Mark Levy in the studio. He is my replacement as of next Monday, actually, he’s taking over,” Hadley told 2GB listeners on Tuesday morning. </p> <p>“So that’s wonderful news for the station and wonderful news for our listeners as well.”</p> <p>Hadley explained that he'd been receiving emails from listeners who wanted Levy to become his replacement, and his response at the time was: “I’ve written back … and said ‘It’s not my decision, it’s a decision for management, and it’s been taken, and I can only hardly endorse the decision they’ve made’.”</p> <p>Levy, who hosts 2GB’s Wide World of Sports has previously filled in for Hadley, and said he felt "extremely honoured" to be taking on the role. </p> <p>“As a young kid I grew up listening to the talkback kings and to be taking over a timeslot that’s been owned by a mentor and a friend for the last 20 years is something I am excited about and extremely honoured to do,” Levy said.</p> <p>“I’m looking forward to the challenge ahead and I can’t wait to speak to our loyal listeners every morning about the issues affecting them in what’s shaping up as an important election year.”</p> <p>The change comes after Hadley announced his retirement in November, with his last day tipped to be December 13. </p> <p>“It’s been a hell of a ride from a young bloke who wanted to call the races, but the time has come for someone else to do the job,” Hadley told listeners at the time. </p> <p><em>Image: 2GB</em></p>

Music

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"No one cares": Albo roasted over Spotify Wrapped

<p>At the end of each December, music streaming service Spotify share their results to each individual user of their most played songs of the year. </p> <p>As is tradition, many people share their results on social media, sparking worldwide commentary about people's listening habits over the last 12 months. </p> <p>Joining in on the fun this year was Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, who took to Instagram to share his top five songs he had on repeat in 2024. </p> <p>His top song was <em>Australia</em> by G-Flip, with each of his top five tracks coming from Australian artists, such as Angie McMahon, and bands Lime Cordiale, Hockey Dad and King Stingray. </p> <p>Despite his representation for local music, many were quick to call out Albo for sharing his Spotify Wrapped at all. </p> <blockquote class="instagram-media" style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/DDK7lLHTrAF/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"> </div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"> <div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style="width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"> </div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DDK7lLHTrAF/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by Anthony Albanese (@albomp)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p>“No one gives a frig what’s on your Spotify list. What they want to hear is what you are actually doing to bring the cost of living issues down and what you are doing with the housing affordability crisis,” read one brutal comment under his post. </p> <p>“No one cares. Do your job,” another person said, while someone else wrote, “The country is f***ed & your tweeting about Spotify #priorities.”</p> <p>“WTF? my electricity bill just went up 20% this morning and you’re show me this !!” another added. </p> <p>One comment simply wrote, "Explains why he hasn’t had time to listen to those who voted for him."</p> <p><em>Image credits: Instagram/LUKAS COCH/EPA-EFE/Shutterstock Editorial</em></p>

Music

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Another ABC reporter announces shock departure

<p>Another ABC reporter has announced their departure. </p> <p>Music reporter Zan Rowe has announced her exit from ABC Breakfast after ten years on the program. </p> <p>Rowe is the popular host of the <em>Take Five</em> series and has been a star for the ABC, on both radio and television. </p> <p>"As just announced on news breakfast I'm gonna be winding up my weekly music news segment next week will be my final week," she told her followers in an Instagram story. </p> <p>"I've been doing it for ten years," she continued.</p> <p>"It's an idea that i pitched a decade ago. I've had such a good time doing it both in Sydney remotely and then on the couch in Melbourne.</p> <p>"It's been amazing to bring music news but also music analysis and discussions around what's happening with artists these days," she added. </p> <p>"It's been a real pleasure and privilege to do that." </p> <p>The presenter then signed off by saying:  "Take away one thing and you can make space for other things.</p> <p>"2025 the land of opportunity." </p> <p>Her departure follows Michael Rowland's <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/entertainment/tv/abc-veteran-announced-his-departure" target="_blank" rel="noopener">announcement</a> that he will also step down from the program on December 13, after 15 years on the show. </p> <p>The ABC is yet to announce the new host for the breakfast show, but it is rumoured that the frontrunner to replace Rowland is  former ABC correspondent James Glenday, who has been the presenter of ABC Canberra’s news bulletin for the past year. </p> <p>Last month he announced his departure from the Canberra role, on the same day as Rowland's departure, with Glenday saying that he was  looking forward to an “exciting new role” in 2025.</p> <p>In just four months, the breakfast show have lost four of their experienced presenters, including Lisa Miller's departure in August, and Tony Armstrong's departure in September. </p> <p><em>Images: Zan Rowe/ Instagram</em></p>

Music

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Readers response: What's one song that never fails to make you cry?

<p>We asked our readers what song always fills them with emotion, whether because of the lyrics or being associated with a heartfelt memory. Here's what they said.</p> <p><strong>Kathryn Sands</strong> - Dance with my Father by Luther Vandross.</p> <p><strong>Carol Hanson</strong> - Amazing Grace. Was played on the bagpipes at my mum's funeral.</p> <p><strong>Matthew Walter</strong> - Probably "When You Kiss Me" by Shania Twain, as it's the song my wife walked down the aisle to on our wedding day. The other one would be "What I Never Knew I Always Wanted" by Carrie Underwood, which played after my son was born. Just sums up parenthood perfectly!</p> <p><strong>Patricia Sundin</strong> - “I was only 19”. Makes me think of all my friends who were conscripted to go to fight in Vietnam. Not a happy time.</p> <p><strong>Janette Willis</strong> - What a Wonderful World - Louis Armstrong. </p> <p><strong>Trish Watts </strong>- If Tomorrow Never Comes by Garth Brooks.</p> <p><strong>Jan Palmer</strong> - Imagine by John Lennon. </p> <p><strong>Adelle Ellmers</strong> - Sounds of Silence cover by Disturbed. Played at my husband's funeral. It was one of his favourites.</p> <p><strong>Gay Sharran Gold</strong> - At Last…. I have to turn it off when it plays. My daughter married her partner two days before she died and had that playing for their song.</p> <p><strong>Heather Widjaja</strong> - Monsters by James Blunt. Always reminds me of the last days of my Dad's life.</p> <p><strong>Jeanette Heaton</strong> - Forever Young by Bob Dylan. Reminds me of my beloved - lost too soon.</p> <p><strong>Laraine Hughes</strong> - Because by Mario Lanza. Walked down the aisle and played at my beloved husband's funeral. Started and ended our life together.</p> <p><strong>Rhonda Leaman</strong> - Somewhere Over The Rainbow from The Wizard of Oz. </p> <p><em>Image credits: Shutterstock </em></p>

Music

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Sir Bob Geldof reveals new version of iconic Christmas song

<p>Sir Bob Geldof has shared the details of the 2024 reprise of the iconic song <em>Do They Know It's Christmas?</em>, revealing why the new version of the song will be the last. </p> <p><em>Do They Know It's Christmas?</em> was first released in 1984, and was sparked by Bob Geldof being disturbed by a news report on the famine in Ethiopia. </p> <p>He enlisted big names such as Bono, Boy George, Sting and George Michael to join in on the song to raise awareness and money for the famine.</p> <p>"I was sickened by it. I mean, that is really it," Geldof told <em>A Current Affair</em>.</p> <p>"I sat down and turned on the TV, and here was this devastating thing that put, you know, my pathetic, puny personal problems in a horrifying perspective."</p> <p>Since then, three more versions of the charity song have been made, in 2004, 2014 and now, in 2024 to mark the 40th anniversary of the original track. </p> <p><iframe title="YouTube video player" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/CDiYk07FG1Y?si=TwdiduKB5vPX56V7" width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></p> <p>Instead of recruiting new artists, this time Bob Geldof has remixed famous renditions from previous versions to combine the greatest voices of our time.</p> <p>Despite each iteration of the song having its own unique charm and voice, Geldof says it will be the last hurrah for the iconic Christmas tune.</p> <p>"I personally think, it's the definitive one and there will be no more," Geldof said.</p> <p>"The world has never been more fragile in my life, and I'm old, and I don't think people can take on board any more horror. They cannot absorb any more, but it's happening."</p> <p><em>Image credits: A Current Affair </em></p>

Music

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Radio presenter resigns after cancer diagnosis

<p>MIX FM radio presenter Ali Clarke has make the emotional announcement that she is stepping back from her hosting role following her battle with breast cancer. </p> <p>Clarke delivered the news to shocked fans live on air after teasing a big announcement on social media.</p> <p>"So here's the big announcement MIX family," she began. "This will be my last week on air with MIX 102.3 doing brekky."</p> <p>"It's really hard to say now and probably even harder to accept it as well but I was offered the opportunity to continue on and it's really hard to say no to something like that because I love this," she said.</p> <p> </p> <p>"I love nothing more than connecting with people and I love radio so much, and I understand the privilege it is to be invited in to someone's home or their car or their lives."</p> <p>She said she'd "miss our listeners terribly and can't thank them enough for their support of not just me, but my family."</p> <p> </p> <p>"Man I love radio and will miss this incredibly hardworking local team, but I know they'll keep bringing the laughs and will go from strength to strength," she continued.</p> <p>When asked by co-host Max Burford if she "was sad" she said "don't ask me that" before fighting back tears in a heartwarming moment. </p> <p>In July, Clarke revealed that she had been diagnosed with breast cancer, sharing details of her health battle with her loyal listeners. </p> <p>She took some time off after being diagnosed but returned to the airwaves in August, reminding women to check their breasts for early signs of breast cancer. </p> <p>Clarke said at the time, "Book in to get checked if you need to or give someone in your life a little nudge if you think they need it … this isn't about scaring people and doing things unnecessarily, it's just making you aware that 'checking your breasts' isn't just a slogan and that you only start mammograms at 50."</p> <p><em>Image credits: Instagram </em></p>

Caring

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Rod Stewart's major career announcement

<p>Rod Stewart has made a major career announcement. </p> <p>The legendary rocker has revealed that he's stepping away from "large-scale" tours, as he embraces a new chapter of his life. </p> <p>Stewart took to Instagram to share his career update, announcing that while he has "no desire to retire" he plans to step away from the large-scale tours to do more intimate shows. </p> <p>“This will be the end of large-scale world tours for me, but I have no desire to retire,” he wrote in the post. </p> <p>“I love what I do, and I do what I love. I’m fit, have a full head of hair, and can run 100 meters in 18 seconds at the jolly old age of 79.</p> <p>“I’d like to move onto a Great American Songbook, Swing Fever tour the year after next – smaller venues and more intimacy. But then again, I may not…”</p> <blockquote class="instagram-media" style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/DCmryDup2QC/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"> </div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"> <div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style="width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"> </div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DCmryDup2QC/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by Sir Rod Stewart (@sirrodstewart)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p>Many of his fans were supportive of his decision to take it slow and do more intimate shows. </p> <p>“You do you Rod – you have been entertaining us for decades – you deserve all the best things in life,” one wrote.</p> <p>“Love you always I love your music forever and ever. You are the rock legend, the best. If you love what you do, don’t stop doing it.”</p> <p>“Do whatever suits you Rod, only you know your limits. You will always be the best,” commented another.</p> <p>“Wishing you the best no matter what you do," wrote a third. </p> <p>The rocker has previously hinted in an interview with the <em>Daily Record</em> that he would be taking a break from touring, in 2022 when he said that he wanted "to do something new". </p> <p><em>Images: Instagram</em></p> <p> </p>

Music

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NRL legend sacked from radio show

<p>NRL legend Mark 'MG' Geyer has been axed from his popular Triple M radio show that he hosts alongside Mick Molloy. </p> <p>The NSW State of Origin star joined Triple M in 2009 and quickly became one of the network's most popular talents, co-hosting the <em>Mick & MG in the Morning</em> show for many years. </p> <p>Geyer, 56, was absent from Wednesday and Thursday’s shows with Molloy making no mention of his whereabouts.</p> <p>News of Geyer being axed was first reported by <a href="https://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/entertainment/sydney-confidential/triple-m-rocked-as-mark-mg-geyer-sacked-from-breakfast-show/news-story/c8257f6989eda13b0dde61a9bb3b67d0" target="_blank" rel="noopener" data-tgev="event119" data-tgev-container="bodylink" data-tgev-order="c8257f6989eda13b0dde61a9bb3b67d0" data-tgev-label="entertainment" data-tgev-metric="ev"><em>The Daily Telegraph</em> </a>with his departure following in the wake of several on-air talents being let go.</p> <p>The shock sacking comes after it was announced that Mick Molloy would also depart the show next year and return to Melbourne where he’ll host Triple M Melbourne’s breakfast show next year alongside Nick Riewoldt, Titus O’Reily and Rosie Walton.</p> <p>Listeners of the show took to social media to vent their frustration after learning the NRL legend had been let go.</p> <p>“MG has been refreshing to listen to on MMM. He isn’t one of the sanitised radio ‘personalities’ who are full of themselves. MG is honest and speaks from the heart,” one wrote.</p> <p>A second added: “MMM are a total joke, was once a great radio station now run by suits who have no idea on what the listeners want. Where’s the MMM we had back 30 years ago when MMM was the Number 1 radio station in Sydney.”</p> <p>While no official announcement has been made by Southern Cross Austereo, Geyer has updated his Facebook profile which now reads: Former Locutor at Triple M Sydney 104.9.</p> <p>According to <em>The Daily Telegraph,</em> an official announcement about the Triple M breakfast show's new lineup would be made "in due course".</p> <p><em>Image credits: Triple M - news.com.au</em></p>

Music

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Radio presenter announces he was sacked live on air

<p>KIIS FM radio presenter Mitch Churi has revealed that he has been sacked, sharing the information live on air. </p> <p>Churi shared the sad news during the latest episode of <em>The Pick Up</em>, which he hosts with Brittany Hockley and Laura Byrne, revealing to his listeners why he won't be back next year.</p> <p>"So late last week, I was informed by the powers that be... They have identified my roles and roles that won't be returning in 2025," he explained.</p> <p>"So I just want to say that it wasn't my decision. It wasn't my call. I really wanted to stay on this show with the two of you. And I wanted to stay on the night show and I wanted to stay at ARN and KIIS. And that I love working in radio," he said.</p> <p>Churi continued,"You know, I started on The Kyle and Jackie O Show when I was 19 and I was their barista. I was a kid who dreamt to have a show like this. And now I've got more time to dream of more dreams."</p> <blockquote class="instagram-media" style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DClRw2qR88Z/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"> </div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"> <div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style="width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"> </div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DClRw2qR88Z/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by THE PICK UP (@thepickup)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p>Co host Laura Byrne confirmed the news, adding, "It's a decision that's been made that's out of our control. As you know, Britt and I, we have to continue on doing the show without you and we are utterly devastated."</p> <p>Brittany Hockley added, "You are not only our co-host, but also one of our best friends."</p> <p>Churi ended his announcement with a message to listeners, saying, "And I just want to end this by saying to the listeners who have listened to our show. When you first heard me, I was a kid. I was in the closet."</p> <p>"I was pimply. I was terrified. And I was so happy to be on air. And all those things still really are the same. I have loved every moment of it."</p> <p>ARN confirmed Chrui's departure in a statement which read: "As part of our review of network shows for 2025, Mitch Churi will be departing ARN, with his final day on KIIS being December 13. Mitch has been a cherished member of the ARN family, bringing his unique energy, humour, and talent to our network."</p> <p><em>Image credits: Instagram </em></p> <p> </p>

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Kyle Sandilands throws drink at Ben Fordham live on-air

<p>Kyle Sandilands and Ben Fordham have clashed during a live interview. </p> <p>The radio rivals joined John Laws' on his 2SM show on Wednesday, for one of Laws' final shows before he retires when things got heated. </p> <p>The trio had been chatting about various topics for 15 minutes when the conversation turned to the US election. </p> <p>After Sandilands gave his opinion on Trump's strong performance, Fordham sarcastically responded with:  “Of all the experts on American politics, what an honour for John Laws to have Kyle Sandilands commenting on it this morning.”</p> <p>The comment sparked an immediate reaction from the KIIS FM host, who retaliated with: “I’ll throw this water in your face, b***h." </p> <p>"I don’t care who you think you are.”</p> <p>“Well go on, do it!” Fordham challenged him.</p> <p>The 2GB host pushed him over the edge when he said:  “You talk tough to the paparazzi …” and was cut off when Sandilands threw a tall glass of water over his face and chest. </p> <p>“Oh my lord!” a shocked Fordham said.</p> <p>“There you go,” Sandilands told him. “Don’t push a Brisbane boy.”</p> <p>Laws seemed rather amused by the chaos, and as Fordham tried to dry himself off, he took another cheeky dig at Sandilands. </p> <p>“Kyle’s wet too, but that’s perspiration,” he said.</p> <p>The interview went on for another 15 minutes and towards the end of the chat Laws apologised to Fordham saying: “I’m sorry you’re wet." </p> <p>“I bet you’ve never said that before,” quipped Sandilands.</p> <p>To make matters worse for Fordham, the NSW premier, Chris Minns was waiting just outside the studio doors. </p> <p>“I’ve got all this water all over me, it looks like I’ve wet myself, and now I’m going to go outside and there are VIPs out there,” Fordham said.</p> <p>“Embarrassing.”</p> <p>On Thursday morning, the KIIS FM radio host reflected on the on-air clash, claiming that he was the one who invited Fordham to appear with him on Laws' radio show. </p> <p>“I shouldn’t have invited him, I’ll never invite him anywhere again,” he said.</p> <p>“He just carried on like a carnival person,” Sandilands continued. “He kept yelling and he kept interfering.”</p> <p>In response, Fordham reportedly told <em>news.com.au</em>, “Kyle knows he’s boring on his own. That’s why he roped me in to join him.”</p> <p><em>Images: 2SM/ news.com.au</em></p>

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"The time has come": Ray Hadley announces retirement

<p>After 43 years on air, Ray Hadley has announced he will be stepping back from his hosting role at 2GB. </p> <p>Hadley shocked his loyal listeners on Thursday morning, saying his extensive career has been "one hell of a ride". </p> <p>“It’s been a hell of a ride from a young bloke who wanted to call the races," he said. "But the time has come for someone else to do the job. So December 13 will be my last day broadcasting."</p> <p>“Apparently the story has broken somewhere. There’s always a leak somewhere, so I may as well do it now, earlier than I anticipated,” he said.</p> <p>“Sometimes you can’t keep things secret, and I suppose in the media, that’s what happens."</p> <p>“I’ve achieved far more than I ever thought I would. My children, Dan, Laura, Emma and Sarah, have made sacrifices over the years for me to realise my ambitions."</p> <p>"Back in September I turned 70, I started to think, how long I've got left on this Earth, and do I want to keep getting up at half past three in the morning, meaning I go to bed early. At social events I'm always the first out the door. I don't want to be the first out the door anymore."</p> <p>Hadley assured listeners he would not be disappearing completely, clarifying, "I'm not retiring from work. I'm just retiring from full-time radio. I'll bob up somewhere in 2025 but not in a full-time capacity, and certainly not on radio." </p> <p>Shortly after making the on-air announcement, NSW premier Chris Minns called into the show to share a tribute. </p> <p>“Ray, you shocked us all. What a massive day in New South Wales radio, and a huge loss for Sydney in particular," Mr Minns said.</p> <p>“We’re genuinely going to miss you. I’m in shock at the moment. It’s a distinguished career. It’s an incredible legacy. But if I was someone up in one word, I would just say fearless, a broadcasting career that’s been completely fearless, and you’ve never, ever pulled your punches in something that you believe in."</p> <p><em>Image credits: Instagram </em></p>

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Fitness influencer gets lifetime ban from NYC marathon for filming content

<p>A Texas social media influencer has been disqualified and banned from future races at the New York City marathon. </p> <p>Last weekend, fitness influencer Matthew Choi ran the race with his camera crew on e-bikes, endangering other runners. </p> <p>He finished the 42.2-kilometre course with a time of 2:57:15, about 50 minutes behind Abdi Nageeye, the winner of the men's race.</p> <p>Choi issued an apology to his 400,000 followers after receiving the lifetime ban. </p> <p>"I have no excuses, full-stop," he said on Wednesday AEDT. </p> <p>"I was selfish on Sunday to have my brother and my videographer follow me around on e-bikes, and it had serious consequences.</p> <p>"We endangered other runners, we impacted people going for PBs, we blocked people from getting water and with the New York City Marathon being about everyone else and the community, I made it about myself.</p> <p>"And for anyone I impacted, I'm sorry."</p> <p>He added that the decision "was 100 per cent on me" as he did not receive pressure to film content from any partners or sponsors. </p> <p>New York Road Runners, the organisers of the race, said in a statement that Choi's actions violated the code of conduct and competition rules. </p> <p>"One of the incidents brought to NYRR's attention was that Choi ran with the assistance of two unauthorised people riding the course on electric bicycles, obstructing runners," the group said.</p> <p>The fitness influencer posted several videos of him running the marathon on social media, which immediately drew backlash. </p> <p>"As a runner, seeing him was amazing. Gave me extra motivation to pass him and make sure I never had to see him and his dumb crew for the rest of the race," wrote one user on Reddit.</p> <p>He has since acknowledged the criticism and has vowed to stop the practice. </p> <p>"It won't happen again. My word is my bond."</p> <p><em>Images: Instagram</em></p> <p> </p>

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Former The Voice contestant wins Melbourne Cup

<p>A former <em>The Voice</em> contestant has won the Melbourne Cup. </p> <p>Two years ago, Robbie Dolan, who was in Rita Ora's team, placed in the top 24 of T<em>he Voice Australia</em>, and now he has celebrated an even bigger win after taking home the Melbourne Cup. </p> <p>Dolan, who was born in Ireland and is a keen jockey, first moved to Australia in 2016 when he was still figuring out his career path. </p> <p>“I came here eight years ago with an ambition of just having a crack,” the 28-year-old told the <em>Today</em> show on Wednesday morning.</p> <p>“Really just having a go, working hard and seeing what happens – and I’m sitting here with the Melbourne Cup.”</p> <p>While he had little luck on the reality TV show as he got eliminated in the sing-offs, his horse racing career has been more fruitful. </p> <p>Dolan started his career at the age of 17 in Ireland, where he participated in a nine-month training program and worked as an apprentice for about three seasons before trying his luck in Australia.</p> <p>Both his father and grandfather were successful riders in Ireland and it seems that racing is in his blood, after he and his five-year-old gelding Knight’s Choice pushed past Zardozi and nudged Warp Speed out of the winning spot 20m before the finish line. </p> <p>While he has celebrated the big win, the jockey remains humble as he revealed the key to winning the Cup was "a lot of luck". </p> <p>“You know, I just needed the runs to open in front of me, and thankfully they did," he said on the <em>Today</em> show. </p> <p>Plus, it helps when you've got a “good little horse” like Knight’s Choice. “He’s an underrated little horse and proved a lot of people wrong yesterday.”</p> <p>As for his singing career Dolan may need to give it a rest for the time being, saying: “My voice is half gone from last night." </p> <p><em>Images: Instagram</em></p>

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Most popular wedding song revealed

<p dir="ltr">A classic 1980s hit has been crowned the most popular wedding song according to a recent study. </p> <p dir="ltr">According to the new research by Breezit, an online wedding vendor search tool that collates data, Whitney Houston’s pop ballad <em>I Wanna Dance With Somebody</em> is the most popular song for couples tying the knot. </p> <p dir="ltr">The 1987 hit, which was on Houston’s second studio album, ‘<em>Whitney</em>’, appeared 484 times across the 2,000 wedding-themed Spotify playlists the company poured through, which contained a total of 49,091 songs.</p> <p dir="ltr">Among thousands of playlists, <em>I Wanna Dance With Somebody</em> featured on more than 24 per cent of those nuptial-centric compilations.</p> <p dir="ltr">Coming in second on the list of most popular wedding songs was ABBA’s 1976 worldwide hit <em>Dancing Queen</em>.</p> <p dir="ltr">“Music plays an incredibly important role in wedding celebrations, and it’s fascinating to see which songs are still hailed as wedding classics, even years after their initial release,” Arturas Asakavicius, co-founder and CEO of Breezit, told <em><a href="https://www.brides.com/all-time-most-popular-wedding-song-new-study-8733497">Brides</a></em>.</p> <p dir="ltr">“Wedding playlists can help create lasting memories” he added, “capturing both the joy of the dance floor and the romance of walking down the aisle. Certain songs have become intertwined with the celebration of a wedding, which is why some have become timeless classics for many couples’ big day.”</p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Image credits: Shutterstock </em></p> <p> </p>

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Coldplay bring out Hollywood cameo for Aussie show

<p>Coldplay have shocked the crowd at their Melbourne concert by bringing out a 1980s movie legend to the stage for a surprise cameo. </p> <p><em>Karate Kid</em> Actor Ralph Macchio took to the stage during the show to help the band perform their song <em>The Karate Kid</em>, from their new album <em>Moon Music</em>.</p> <p>Macchio, 62, lip-synched to frontman Chris Martin’s vocals, before the pair embraced warmly in front of the crowd at the sold-out gig. </p> <blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"> <p dir="ltr" lang="en">NEWS • Karate Kid Actor Ralph Macchio took to the stage during today’s show in Melbourne to shoot the music video for "The Karate Kid". | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ColdplayMelbourne?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ColdplayMelbourne</a> 🇦🇺</p> <p>He lip synced to Chris's voice 🥋🎤</p> <p>🎥<a href="https://twitter.com/coldplaybrasil?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@coldplaybrasil</a> <a href="https://t.co/bWP1YN79G3">pic.twitter.com/bWP1YN79G3</a></p> <p>— Coldplay United Kingdom (@ColdplayUK_) <a href="https://twitter.com/ColdplayUK_/status/1851967580363255983?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 31, 2024</a></p></blockquote> <p>Macchio became a household name in the 1980s for playing Daniel LaRusso in three <em>Karate Kid</em> films, and more recently has reprised the iconic role in the Netflix series <em>Cobra Kai.</em></p> <p>According to a Coldplay fan account on social media, the footage of the actor’s on-stage cameo will be used as a music video when <em>The Karate Kid</em> is released as a single.</p> <p>The famous actor had earlier been spotted in the audience at Coldplay’s Wednesday show at Melbourne’s Marvel Stadium, having flown from New York to attend the gig.</p> <p><em>Image credits: X/Sonia Moskowitz Gordon/ZUMA/Shutterstock Editorial </em></p>

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Guy Sebastian drops bombshell news

<p>Guy Sebastian has shocked fans after announcing he would be taking a step back from his coaching role on <em>The Voice </em>after six years in the red chair. </p> <p>In a statement shared to Instagram, the Aussie singer revealed that he is having a break from the show to focus on his other musical pursuits, such as a new album and upcoming tour. </p> <p>“I have made the decision to take a break from the best red chair on the planet. It’s been six amazing years as a coach and it’s honestly been the best gig ever!” he said.</p> <p>“I have nothing but good things to say about the show itself, and sharing the panel with such amazing coaches has been a pleasure."</p> <p>“The best thing about the show is how positive it is and how much care and passion goes into making it a safe place for artists.”</p> <p>“For me right now, it’s time to focus more on my core, which is writing and performing new music,” he added.“I am busy planning shows in Australia and worldwide and I am really looking forward to getting out and connecting with you all there."</p> <p>"For too long now, I have been reading comments from you asking when I will be visiting your town/country and it’s high time I come and visit!”</p> <p>Sebastian revealed he had been working his new album on and off for years, and is hoping he will now be able to give the new record his undivided attention.</p> <p>“I’ve worked on this upcoming album for four years and I’ve poured everything I have into it, so I need to pay respect to that effort and the art I’ve created,” he wrote.</p> <p>Signing off from the statement, Sebastian revealed he is planning to return to <em>The Voice</em> at a later date, while issuing a word of warning for his temporary replacement. </p> <p>He said, “Whoever has the audacity to take my chair, don’t get too comfortable ... I will wrestle for it back with zero dignity when I’m ready to return.”</p> <p>“Thank you everyone, it’s been a blast and let’s keep supporting fresh Aussie talent – it’s some of the best in the world!”</p> <p><em>Image credits: The Voice</em></p>

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Longtime friend opens up on John Farnham's potential return to singing

<p>John Farnham is back in the spotlight following the release of his brand new memoir, <em>John Farnham: The Voice Inside</em>. </p> <p>The memoir explores the legendary singer's extraordinary almost six-decade career, with an insight into the star's notoriously private family life. </p> <p>As he slowly and steadily recovers from mouth cancer, the beloved singer's voice has been heard for the first time as he narrates the <a href="https://oversixty.com.au/health/caring/john-farnham-s-voice-heard-for-the-first-time-since-throat-surgery" target="_blank" rel="noopener">audiobook</a> for his memoir. </p> <p>Now, long-time friend Gaynor Wheatley has shared an exciting update on whether the music icon would ever perform again. </p> <p>"As soon as I saw him in the studio doing the audiobook and as soon as he got behind the microphone, the twinkle was in the eye," she told <em>Today</em>.</p> <p>"That's when I thought, you know, we're still in with a shot and he can still sing, his voice box is still great, there's just a few more things to do with the mouth recovery, but we all know he's as strong as a boxer so if he wants to do something, he'll do it.</p> <p>"If I say to him, 'You won't sing, you can't sing, what a shame', then he'll go, 'Yes I can, I'll prove you wrong'."</p> <p>In another interview with <em>The Project</em>, she recalled how the legendary singer still wants to perform despite his facial disfigurement from the surgery. </p> <p>“He’s a singer,” she said at the time. </p> <p>“I know when he got back in the studio doing the audiobook, he was like, ‘I want to get back, I want to go back’."</p> <p><em>Image: Today/ Facebook</em></p>

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"You are incredible": The Voice 2024 winner revealed

<p>In a thrilling conclusion to <em>The Voice's</em> 13th season, Reuben de Melo from Team LeAnn emerged as the winner after the public votes wrapped up on Sunday night. </p> <p>The finale saw  Annie Jones, Skÿe, Reuben and Jaedyn Randell each perform a duet with their coach and then a solo number.</p> <p>Reuben sang a stirring rendition of the Coldplay ballad <em>Fix You</em> with his coach. He then performed <em>House of the Rising Sun</em> by The Animals, a rendition which his coach described as "insane". </p> <p>The FIFO worker and father of three has previously said that winning <em>The Voice</em> and taking home the 100k grand prize would allow him to get out of the minds and spend more time with his family. </p> <p>“I never thought I’d get this far, this is crazy," Reuben said of his win, which also comes with a music masterclass and industry recording development package. </p> <p>“I’m so proud," LeAnn said. "You deserve every bit of this moment and I’m so honoured that I could be on this journey with you. You are incredible."</p> <p>LeAnne also explained why she'd taken to Reuben since his first blind audition, even using her "Ultimate Block" tool to stop the other coaches from snagging him for their teams. </p> <p>“I knew as soon as he opened his mouth, and I heard him sing. There was just so much feeling there. There was no way I was letting any of the other coaches get to him before I did,” she said.</p> <p>Earlier in the night, Skÿe from Team Guy, who was another strong contender, hit the stage with the Goo Goo Dolls' iconic song<em> Iris</em> and then sang <em>Against All Odds</em> by Phil Collins as his duet with Guy Sebastian.</p> <p>Annie Jones sang <em>Youngblood</em> by 5SOS as her solo and <em>Barracuda by Heart </em>for her duet with Adam Lambert, while Jaedyn performed Empire of the Sun's <em>Walking on a Dream </em>as a duet with Kate-Miller Heidke and then <em>Snow Angel </em>by Renee Rapp.</p> <p><em>Image: Seven</em></p>

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