Jim Wilson announced he is stepping down as host of 2GB Drive to pursue other opportunities with Nine television.
The broadcaster and senior journalist shared the news on his Drive program on Thursday afternoon, thanking his listeners for their support over the last couple of years.
“I’ve been so lucky to have been given this opportunity, and my listeners have been incredible. I’m going to miss them,” Wilson said.
“They’ve taken me into their lounge rooms, into their cars, and to have been the #1 talk show, in a super competitive slot, three out of the last four ratings surveys is something I’m very proud of achieving.”
“In my 35 years in broadcasting, my mantra has been all about being fair and reasonable and true to myself. We’ve managed to help people and given them a voice on my program and that’s been the most satisfying part of the job – getting people a fair go.
“I love what I do and I’ve still got the passion to do more in the future, there’s nothing like live broadcasting and I say bring on the next chapter,” Wilson concluded.
Wilson took over the Drive shift in July 2020, and has been a source of trusted information and great comfort for his listeners through the COVID-19 pandemic.
Tom Malone, Nine Radio’s managing director, said: “I want to thank Jim for his hard work, professionalism and passion over the past two and a half years.
“He is a person of the highest integrity and he’s championed so many great causes for our listeners during his tenure. I look forward to seeing Jim back on our TV screens, and he leaves radio with our good will and best wishes,” he added.
Wilson will host his final Drive program tomorrow afternoon. An announcement about a new permanent host will be made in due course.
On Thursday, The Advertiser reported on the presenters tipped to replace Jim Wilson including Nine News political reporter Chris O’Keefe and 2GB sports broadcaster Mark Levy.
Also speculated to take over the drive show is 2GB’s Overnight host Michael McLaren or Drive fill-in presenter Luke Grant, according to the publication.