Kate Ritchie ‘feeling great’ ahead of return to Nova drive show after rehab stint

After a rehab stint and taking time away from Nova’s drive show, Kate Ritchie is returning to the airwaves.

Kate Ritchie is returning to the Nova drive show with Tim Blackwell and Joel Creasey soon.

Joel Creasey says Kate Ritchie is “feeling great” ahead of her return to their Nova drive show.

Ritchie announced in October she would step down for the remainder of the year, with Ricki-Lee Coulter filling in on the Kate, Tim (Blackwell) and Joel show.

Ritchie said a hectic schedule and pressure had taken its toll.

She will return in a few weeks time following a stint in rehab.

“I haven’t seen her in a few months, I’ve missed her and her wicked cackle,’’ Creasey said.

“She said she’s feeling great and that’s lovely to hear. She’s been in showbiz since seven years of age, it’s nice to see (taking a break) being normalised and that you are allowed to have time off.”

Joel Creasey says Ritchie is ‘feeling great’ ahead of her return to their Nova drive show. Picture: Fiona Hamilton

The actor had said in a statement the last year had been challenging and stressful and led to an “unhealthy reliance on alcohol”.

Creasey was at the Australian Open as a guest of Emirates on Sunday.

He has been working on a documentary for the ABC called New Leash of Life about dogs and mutual rescues.

“It’s heavy content but definitely touching,’’ he said.

Creasey will soon host the World Pride flight for Qantas to LA and will again co-host Eurovision.

He said he’s loved working with Coulter and will eagerly prepare to welcome back Ritchie.

Mum of one Ritchie told listeners last year: “This past year has been incredibly hectic and full on for both me and my family. I have had much change and increased stress in my life, like many of you, in a short space of time. And it has taken its toll. But still, I am so proud that our Nova show, with Tim and Joel and the team, is just powering along, and going from strength to strength.”

Ritchie was suspended from driving for three months after a low-range drink driving incident in August.

The former Home And Away star is a judge on Australia’s Got Talent.