Listeners protest outside 2GB as Steve Price debuts afternoon show

Listeners have protested outside 2GB as Steve Price debuted his new afternoon show. The broadcaster was joined by new regular panellist Karl Stefanovic just weeks after the station’s management and former host Chris Smith “parted ways”.

• Karl Stefanovic’s surprising new 2GB gig
• Chris Smith ‘discussions’ about future

Angry protesters marched outside 2GB radio today as Steve Price debuted his new afternoon show in the wake of Chris Smith’s departure.

A dozen men and women aged in their 50s and 60s, held up large posters and signs before being allowed into the building to voice their concerns to 2GB.

Smith and 2GB management Macquarie Media “parted ways” late last month after the long-time broadcaster refused to swap shifts with Price and host the 8pm-midnight show.

Protesters outside 2GB offices in Sydney. Picture: James Gourley

Angry listeners speak to Macquarie Media management. Picture: James Gourley

MORE NEWS

Amanda Keller lashes Gleeson for Logies win

Bones linked to missing backpackers

Eels v Tigers streaker was a guest of the NRL

Today, Price officially made a permanent move into the 12-3pm timeslot. It’s understood he minted a new deal with management late last year when the company intended to dump breakfast host Alan Jones.

Price was joined by Karl Stefanovic after 2pm with the former Channel 9 personality to appear on the program every Monday.

2GB host and Channel 10 personality Steve Price. Picture: Dylan Robinson

Stefanovic will join the program every Monday. Picture: Chris Hyde

Protester Wendy Blake said that the ratings alone on Chris Smith’s afternoon program should have been enough to keep him in the job and questioned 2GB’s decision.

How long has Chris Smith been number one? Don’t ratings mean anything?” she said.

“People who listen to 2GB are conservatives, that’s now been changed, Chris Smith was a voice for the thinking people.”

Former 2GB host Chris Smith.

Holding a sign that read “The Price is not right!” Michelle Tesoriero said she won’t be tuning into Steve Price’s program or listening to 2GB at all.

“2GB are so very wrong about this, I won’t be listening anymore,” she said.

“Chris Smith was the last daytime announcer that allowed all points of view, he was always facts based and always engaged in conversation, particularly from a global audience.

“Steve Price is far too dismissive, I’ve called in before and spoken to him, he says he’s going to do something but never does. Chris Smith is the only one left who listens to the people.”