Jim Wilson to replace Ben Fordham as new 2GB drive host
Jim Wilson is the new 2GB drive host, replacing Ben Fordham in the high profile radio gig. Wilson beat numerous other contenders to score the highly coveted broadcast role as Fordham took over from retiring breakfast host Alan Jones.
Confidential
Don't miss out on the headlines from Confidential. Followed categories will be added to My News.
Jim Wilson is the new 2GB drive host, replacing Ben Fordham in the high profile radio gig.
Wilson beat numerous other contenders to score the highly coveted broadcast role as Fordham took over from retiring breakfast host Alan Jones.
Mark Levy has filled in for Fordham in the timeslot for the past three weeks, with much speculation as to who will take the prime job.
Wilson comes from Channel 7, where he has been a sports reporter since 1992.
“I could not be more excited to be taking on the mantle of 2GB Drive,” Wilson said this morning.
“Radio is a medium I love, and I’m thrilled to get the mic full time on Sydney’s No. 1 station, 2GB. It’s a terrific stable and I’m ready for the next exciting chapter in my work life after more than 30 years in the industry.
To everyone at Seven, a huge thank you for your support and kind messages. I’ve been lucky to work alongside some of the best in our business. But this was an opportunity I simply couldn’t say no to.
“I love live broadcasting and telling people’s stories. Drive is fast and furious, breaking news, and its fluid. I will be firm, fair and listen to all sides — and we will have a laugh.”
Wilson, 52, is married to news broadcaster Chris Bath.
He has worked in television for several decades and was at Channel 9 before moving to Seven in 1992.
“Jim’s rich and varied career and the tapestry of his life make him the perfect choice to take over the 2GB Drive slot,” said Nine managing director radio Tom Malone.
“He is already well known to our audience in Sydney and is a talented broadcaster.”
In a letter to all staff, Malone congratulated Wilson.
“He’s long harboured a passion for radio, and an ambition to host his own show,” Malone wrote. “His rich and varied career and personal life make him a great choice to build on the success of Ben Fordham in the Drive slot.“
Jones’s former executive producer Paul Christensen will take up that role with Wilson.
Mark Levy will continue to host 4BC Drive in Brisbane until a permanent replacement is found for that position.
“I want to thank Mark for filling in on 2GB and continuing to do so on 4BC. He’s a very good broadcaster and a very important part of our team, and as he’s made clear, his passion is with Wide World of Sports and TheContinuous Call Team,” Malone said.
Wilson’s wife, newsreader Chris Bath, took to social media to congratulate her husband of eight years.
“Couldn’t be prouder of this beautiful man,” she wrote.
Couldn’t be prouder of this beautiful man. He’s off on a new adventure, taking his passion & enthusiasm to radio. He loves people & yabbering away, so he’s made for talkback. He’s generous & kind, & very… https://t.co/l5JC4RCm6c
— Chris Bath (@ChrisBathTV) June 14, 2020
“He’s off on a new adventure, taking his passion & enthusiasm to radio. He loves people & yabbering away, so he’s made for talkback. He’s generous & kind & very entertaining. He loves breaking a story & the white knuckle ride of it as a broadcaster.
“In 33 years as a journalist, he’s never been scared to ask tough questions (loves to dominate a media conference) but as he does it, treats everyone with respect.
“He’s a fresh voice & a fair one. If you thought 2UE was radioactive, just wait for the ball of energy that’s Jimmy on 2GB Drive.”