NewsBite

92.7 MIX FM host Todd Widdicombe to step down from radio

Heartfelt goodbyes and well wishes have been given to a beloved Sunshine Coast radio host after he announced his resignation in light of his battle with mental health.

Todd Widdicombe and Sami Muirhead from 92.7 MIXFM, in 2014. Photo: Patrick Woods / Sunshine Coast Daily
Todd Widdicombe and Sami Muirhead from 92.7 MIXFM, in 2014. Photo: Patrick Woods / Sunshine Coast Daily

A beloved radio host has opened up about tragic losses in his life as he announced his resignation to focus on his mental health.

Co-host of 92.7 MIX FM’s Drive show Todd Widdicombe will step down from his position after his last session later this year.

The radio station posted a video of Mr Widdicombe in the studio to Facebook, sharing the tragic events which led to his decision.

Mr Widdicombe, in an emotional session, shared the news of his brother taking his own life in September last year.

“It broke my heart,” he said.

Three weeks later, a longtime mate of Mr Widdicombe did the same.

He acknowledged the terrible pain in losing someone in your life.

“But when they make that choice themselves to leave you,” he said.

“I’m not okay.”

Mr Widdicombe explained he could not continue to give his best to his audience everyday, without prioritising his own wellbeing.

His co-host, Sami Muirhead, reassured her friend he would be okay.

“Because you’re brilliant and you’re beautiful,” she said.

Sami Muirhead and Todd Widdicombe at Backlane for the official opening in 2017.
Sami Muirhead and Todd Widdicombe at Backlane for the official opening in 2017.

“You’re a bit busted up at the moment, old mate.”

Mr Widdicombe’s last session on air will be on August 22, as reported by Sunshine Coast News.

Loyal listeners of the radio show swarmed to the comments to send their best wishes and show admiration for his courage to speak up.

Stu McKenzie from Sunshine Coast Snake Catchers said Mr Widdicombe had been a huge supporter of himself and his company.

“We would always look forward to coming in to the studio and chatting with you and Sami,” he wrote.

“You are a genuine legend who made us all laugh. Cheers mate.”

A comment made by the 4 Ingredients page, a book published by Kim McCosker and Rachael Bermingham, said Mr Widdicombe would be irreplaceable and dearly missed.

“Thank you for all the joy and laughter, the razor sharp wit, and knowledge,” the comment read.

Pure Grit Podcast host Paula McGrath said she loved filling in for Ms Muirhead, and the laughter and care Mr Widdicombe has shown.

“Life is short, Todd, and I admire you even more for speaking up and honouring you and your family,” she wrote.

Todd Widdicombe on the far right, pictured at a Care Bear giveaway in 2019.
Todd Widdicombe on the far right, pictured at a Care Bear giveaway in 2019.

Presenter and fashion editor Carlie Wacker said filling in was some of her favourite times in radio, and she got to know “a beautiful man who loves his family beyond words”.

Director of Sales at 92.7 MIX FM Simon Bell wrote they were luck to work with “such a genuine, amazing, big-hearted guy”.

“Love you so much, Todd,” Ms Bell wrote

Melinda Grinner-Bingley honoured Mr Widdicombe’s vulnerability and “leading the way” in letting men put themselves first.

“Big hugs to you, my friend, and massive thank you to everything you have contributed to our Sunny Coast community,” she wrote.

Andrew Fox also praised Mr Widdicombe for sharing his story.

“Well done mate,” he commented.

“It ain’t weak to speak.”

Originally published as 92.7 MIX FM host Todd Widdicombe to step down from radio

Add your comment to this story

To join the conversation, please Don't have an account? Register

Join the conversation, you are commenting as Logout

Original URL: https://www.thechronicle.com.au/news/queensland/sunshine-coast/927-mix-fm-host-todd-widdicombe-to-step-down-from-radio/news-story/0998f648854ccb62ae00b314f89ef39f