Abbie Chatfield is the latest personality to take the helm of KIIS FM's breakfast show, following the departure of Kyle Sandilands and Jackie 'O' Henderson last month. The media figure will host the programme on KIIS 1065 and KIIS 1011 from Monday 27 April to Friday 1 May.
Chatfield joins a roster of fill-in hosts including Mike E and Intern Pete, who have stepped in while the network searches for a permanent replacement. The week-long stint has been widely interpreted as an unofficial audition.
“I’m so excited to jump in with the KIIS Breakfast crew for the week,” Chatfield said. “Breakfast radio is fast, fun, and full-on in the best way, so I think I’ll be a perfect fit! I can’t wait to get on air.”
The announcement came a day after the second radio ratings of the year were published. KIIS FM's breakfast share eased to 11.7%, down from 12.7% in the previous survey, marking the first ratings read since the pair's exit. The modest decline suggests listeners have not deserted the station in large numbers, with many apparently waiting to see what happens next.
Meanwhile, Kyle Sandilands' first court hearing against his former employer starts today in the Federal Court. The radio host is suing ARN and its subsidiary, the Commonwealth Broadcasting Corporation, alleging his contract was terminated without valid grounds and in breach of Australian Consumer Law.
The case stems from ARN's decision to end Sandilands' deal after an on-air dispute with co-host Jackie 'O' Henderson. Sandilands argues the termination was invalid, claiming there was no act of serious misconduct or breach of contract.
