Babies and Idol: Kyle Sandilands’ plans for biggest year yet

Kyle Sandilands is stepping into 2025 with more ambition than ever, gearing up for what he says will be the biggest year of his career, with plans for another baby and a new job as an Idol judge.

Kyle Sandilands is stepping into 2025 with more ambition than ever, gearing up for what he’s anticipating will be the biggest year of his career.

As one of Australia’s most iconic radio hosts, Sandilands’ has his work cut out for him, as he and co-host Jackie “O” Henderson attempt to crack the fickle Melbourne market.

But it’s not just his radio empire that’s taking up his time— he’s also returning to his role as a judge on Australian Idol, adding his signature blend of tough love and sensitivity as a judge on the nation’s biggest singing competition.

Kyle Sandilands for Stellar Magazine.

Throw in what he hopes will be another child with wife, Tegan Sandilands to give 2-year-old son Otto a sibling and beyond the spotlight, 2025 is set to be a deeply personal and memorable year for Australia’s most high-profile and recognisable broadcaster.

“That’s not too much, is it,” the 53-year-old father of one said to The Saturday Telegraph.

In 2023, the Australian Radio Network ARN) announced that as part of a $200m, 10-year deal with KIIS they would be taking their show national, expanding into the tightly fought Melbourne market from April 2024.

However it’s yet to have paid off, with their show dropping to a 5 per cent market share.

Sandilands isn’t too worried.

“I feel very relaxed (about it) but the Sydney figures are very good,” he said.

“The Melbourne things have been a bit slow, but as I’ve said to our guys and the management of KIIS, they usually plan these things to take two years.

“I would have liked to have seen a bigger increase than what we’re at, because we’re on a five which is pretty shit, but I just think it’ll slowly grow.”

Juggling his high-profile career and expanding his family might seem like a lot, but Sandilands is no stranger to handling pressure.

With a reputation built on resilience, reinvention and redemption, 2025 promises to be the year he further cements his place as one of Australia’s most successful radio and TV personalities.

FOR THE FULL INTERVIEW, READ SUNDAY’S STELLAR MAGAZINE.