Russel Howcroft has re-signed a multi-year deal as co-host of 3AW’s number one breakfast show, which will see him continue to partner Ross Stevenson on Breakfast for another four years.
3AW station manager, Stephen Beers said: “We are delighted Russ is committing to 3AW for the long term.”
“Ross Stevenson and Russel Howcroft have kept Melbourne informed and entertained through Melbourne’s hardest times, and together have set new records for listening that are unlikely to ever be surpassed,” Beers added.
Since joining 3AW breakfast in July 2020, Howcroft has cemented his position, alongside Stevenson, as a radio ratings powerhouse.
3AW’s Ross and Russel
The duo grew their cumulative audience by 17% from Survey 2 – Survey 6 2020 – and their share of audience grew by nearly 50% or 9.5 share points.
Stevenson and Howcroft have been number one for 16 consecutive surveys, and 3AW Breakfast has continued its success under their stewardship, celebrating the number one position for 161 consecutive surveys (dating back to Survey 1 2002).
Howcroft said of his new deal: “I want to say thank you to 3AW and the Melbourne audience for the ongoing support – and of course the Breakfast team, who are a fabulous creative mix, led by the inimitable Ross Stevenson. What a joyful way for all of Melbourne to start the day.
Ross Stevenson said, “I’m thrilled Russ is continuing with 3AW Breakfast. It’s great to have such fun with him every morning.”
Last month, Survey 4 saw the Melbourne radio station gain back 1.0 points to extend its #1 share to 15.7%. The station still maintains a healthy lead of over three points on Gold 104.3.
Breakfast with Ross and Russ was down 0.3 as its market-leading share now sits at 19.1%.
Howcroft joined the Breakfast slot in 2020, taking over from radio veteran John Burns who left 3AW that year.
See also: Melbourne Radio Ratings 2022, Survey 4: 3AW still #1 as GoldFM rules FM radio
See also: Bye bye Burnso: 3AW farewelling breakfast veteran John Burns
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Top image: Russel Howcroft