KIIS FM Replaces Kyle and Jackie O with New Hosts on 'Realistic' Salaries
ARN director Dave Cameron confirms new breakfast show talent will not be paid the $10 million annual contract of their predecessors, prioritizing commercial viability.
KIIS FM's new breakfast show hosts will earn salaries described as 'realistic' by ARN's director of metro radio content, Dave Cameron, a departure from the approximately $10 million per year contract held by their predecessors, Kyle Sandilands and Jackie Henderson. The new lineup, set to begin broadcasting on November 9, features Dr. Chris Brown, KIIS regular Amy Gerard, and Nova's Jack Charles.
Cameron stated that the network is operating under different financial expectations within the industry compared to when Sandilands and Henderson signed their ten-year contract in 2024. "The economics have to work. You need to pay a good price for great talent, and with that comes expectations of making sure it's a viable commercial decision for the business as well," Cameron told Mumbrella. He emphasized that while attracting an audience is crucial, securing premium advertisers for commercial success is paramount. "Commercial success is more important. And when the company's successful, everyone should enjoy those spoils."
The axing of The Kyle and Jackie O Show occurred in March, and reports indicate Sandilands has expressed dissatisfaction with the new team, calling the show's planned direction too "woke" and "boring." He reportedly described Dr. Chris Brown as "vanilla" and criticized the new show's branding. Despite his criticisms, Sandilands offered a message of support to the incoming hosts, wishing them luck in the role.
The new KIIS FM program is expected to continue the station's format, blending talkback, banter, topical discussions, and popular music.