2GB host quits live on air: ‘the time is right for me to make the call to move on’

The changes at 2GB changes continue with Drive host Chris O’Keefe quitting live on air … effective from 6pm.

Chris O'Keefe is stepping down and resigned on air this afternoon.

Long-time broadcaster Chris O’Keefe has pulled the pin on his TV and radio career.

O’Keefe, 43, revealed the shock news live on air during his 2GB radio drive show this afternoon.

“Today is my last show, and my last day in journalism,” O’Keefe said.

Chris O’Keefe makes major announcement live on 2GB drive shift.

“It’s been a difficult decision, and one I have been wrestling with for many, many months. As much as I have enjoyed my time here at 2GB and my 13 years at Nine, the time is right for me to make the call to move on. I’m a young father, and I am looking at what the next 10 years looks like for me and my family. And as we all do from time to time, I have had to answer this question.”

O’Keefe is married to popular and respected Fox Sports presenter and commentator Yvonne Sampson

He started his journalism career in 2008 with an internship at St George and Sutherland Shire Leader before moving into television a few years later at Ten News on the Gold Coast.

He joined Nine as a reporter two years later and went on to work across news and current affairs.

In November 2022, O’Keefe was named as the new host of the coveted 2GB afternoon drive shift, replacing Jim Wilson.

His next move is into consultancy.

“I am going to open my own political and media advocacy business, to help clients navigate their projects or issues through the maelstrom of government and public opinion,” he explained.

“I am excited about it, and I know I can make it a success.”

The news comes on the same day Ray Hadley wrapped his final shift at 2GB with his retirement after several decades at the top of his game.

Chris O'Keefe and Yvonne Sampson with their then newborn son, Henry

Of his wife, he said: “I would be nothing without my wife Vonny. She is the most extraordinary human being. She is easily the most talented and respected sports broadcaster in Australia, but people don’t know the half of it. Vonny has taught me a resilience that I didn’t know I had in me. Her resilience and kindness is other worldly, My God I am lucky.”

The couple have been together for 12 years and are parents to son, Henry.

O’Keefe said he didn’t want a fuss after his two years at 2GB while stating he is proud of the work he and his team have done together.

“We should all kiss the dirt every day that we live in this great country of ours,” he said.

Chris O'Keefe with baby Henry

Yvonne Sampson and Chris O'Keefe at their Bowral wedding.

“There are billions of human beings, just through the roulette game of life, who haven’t been lucky enough to live in Australia. We can get medical care for free whenever we need it, a job for whoever wants one, 13 years of free schooling, and the government will front the fee if you want to go to Uni. If you are disabled, you are looked after, if you are mentally ill, you will be looked after. If you are elderly you’ll get the pension and your nursing home paid for. If you are a child, you’ll get your childcare covered. We have rainforests, snow, beaches and outback. Beautiful cities, and extraordinary opportunities. Australia is not perfect, but there are some people around the world who would think it goes pretty bloody close. I reckon we could be a little more thankful for that at times.”