Michael McLaren to host 2GB weekend mornings following Chris Smith exit

Broadcaster Michael McLaren has stepped into 2GB’s weekend mornings timeslot, following Luke Grant’s move to present overnights across 2GB and 4BC.

McLaren started off by hosting 2GB’s weekend overnight program in 2011, before taking on Australia Overnights Monday to Friday in 2016.

He fills the program gap from the exit of broadcaster Chris Smith, whosecontract was terminatedlast year because of alleged inappropriate behaviour at a staff Christmas party.

McLaren said on his new role: “Whilst I’ll bring my own interests to the microphone, my years at 2GB have taught me that talk radio is at its best when the audience drives the agenda. And so, Weekends will be a reflection of the issues Sydney is talking and thinking about.

“I also want to thank the thousands of people who were loyal to my Overnight program for so many years. We became like family and I hope many of you will be able to join me and many new listeners over the weekends ahead.”

Coming from the Money News program on 2GB, 3AW and 4BC, Grant said he would “relish every challenge and opportunity that comes my way”.

“What I particularly love about Overnights is it’s where people turn for company, and I’m thrilled to have the chance to give that to our 2GB and 4BC listeners, as well as the first live and local news coverage of the day,” he said.

2GB content manager, Luke Davis, said: “Michael McLaren’s performance over the past decade has been outstanding, with listeners warming to his intelligence, quick wit and knack of breaking down complex issues.

“他的能力涵盖从th的消息e day, to travel, sport, home improvement, cars, technology, health and nostalgia – with equal aplomb – makes him the perfect companion on Weekends.

“Luke Grant, meanwhile, has proven himself as one of Australia’s most versatile and popular radio broadcasters. Over recent years, he has filled in for just about every program and format on the station, so we’re excited for Luke to make Overnights his own from 2023.”

McLaren commences his role this Sunday 15 January, and Grant’s overnights will premiere on 16 January.