Isaac Smith Leaves AFL Commentary for Melbourne Breakfast Radio

AFL star Isaac Smith is transitioning from football commentary to join KIIS FM's Melbourne breakfast program, a move that sees him replace the station's previous offering featuring Kyle Sandilands and Jackie 'O' Henderson.

Starting October 26, Smith will co-host the "KIIS Breakfast with Ash, Issie & Elliot" show alongside broadcaster Ash London and fashion stylist Elliot Garnaut. The program is scheduled to run from 6 a.m. to 10 a.m., with news updates provided by former Bachelorette star Georgia Love.

This career change marks a significant shift for Smith, who won four AFL premierships during his playing career and most recently served in a special comments role for Triple M. "It's nice to step outside the bubble, out of footy and my comfort space - and I get a chance to learn," Smith stated. He plans to commute daily from Geelong for the new role.

The new KIIS Melbourne breakfast team faces the challenge of building listenership in a market where the broadcast of the Sydney-based "Kyle and Jackie O" show did not achieve the desired ratings. The latest radio survey indicated KIIS with a 5.1% audience share in Melbourne, significantly trailing Nova's 10.8%.

Smith is no stranger to co-host Elliot Garnaut, as they currently produce the podcast "No Utes in the Valet." Their connection, forged through mutual friend Carrie Bickmore's brain cancer fundraising efforts, will now extend to a daily four-hour radio show.

Garnaut, who has made guest appearances on "Sunrise," expressed enthusiasm for the early mornings. "The energy on set has been great and I'm excited to go from a night owl to an early morning person," he said. "It will be so fun to have all these worlds colliding."

London returns to Melbourne radio after a period working in New Zealand. She emphasized the importance of establishing shared values and a cohesive approach before committing to the show. "No one wanted to sign up until our values aligned and we're all on the same page," London commented, adding that the team aims to deliver a "distinctly local breakfast program" for Melbourne.

This development for KIIS Melbourne follows ARN's announcement of new hosts for its Sydney breakfast slot. ARN chief executive Michael Stephenson stated that the new appointments are designed to "give each city its own identity" by combining "big stars, fresh new talent and distinctive local voices."