Ray Hadley’s 2GB replacement revealed as Mark Levy

Ray Hadley has announced who will replace him as 2GB morning show host, with the veteran broadcaster set to hang up the mic this month.

They’re big shoes to fill – listener favourite Mark Levy will take the reins from respected industry leader Ray Hadley on talkback station 2GB in 2025.

Hadley, who turned 70 in September, made the announcement live on air this morning, revealing long-time mentee Levy had landed the plum job.

It comes weeks after Hadley announced his retirement from 2GB after a spectacular 43 year broadcasting career, during which he spent two decades on the top of the highly competitive radio ratings.

Reported by this masthead just days ago, Levy was the favourite to replace Hadley after previously filling in and building a rapport with both listeners and executives.

Ray Hadley after announcing his retirement in November. Picture: Rohan Kelly

2GB broadcaster Mark Levy has been named as Ray Hadley’s replacement. Picture: Rohan Kelly

Hadley said he had no say in who replaced him in the timeslot.

The veteran broadcaster is however “thrilled” and “delighted” by the choice.

“I am a bit nervous about the whole thing, it is like following on from (Don) Bradman,” Levy told Hadley on air.

“But I am looking forward to the challenge and I am excited by what the future will bring.”

Levy will host the morning shift Monday to Friday as well as weekend sport duties.

“I would implore you given the folly of my mistakes, not to work seven days a week,” Hadley said.

Pictured outside 2GB radio at Pyrmont in Sydney is radio broadcaster Mark Levy who has been announced at the replacement for Ray Hadley. Picture: Richard Dobson

Hadley finished by wishing Levy the “best of luck”.

“I’ll be cheering you right through 2025,” Hadley said.

Levy responded: “It is not lost on me the synergy ... a young Ray Hadley filled in for John Laws, a young Mark Levy filled in for Ray Hadley, and I’ve got a great opportunity ahead of me but this week is all about you, congratulations on an extraordinary career and if I have half the success you’ve had mate, I think we will be going okay.”

Hadley will wrap his final shift on Friday while Levy will pick up the 9am to 12pm timeslot from Monday.

2GB radio host and Ben Fordham. Picture: Sam Ruttyn

2GB radio host Michael McLaren. Picture: Justin Lloyd

Ben Fordham of course will remain in the all important breakfast shift while Michael McLaren is on air from noon, Chris O’Keefe in drive from 3pm and Deb Knight with Money News after that.

“Over almost two decades, Mark Levy has proven himself to be one of Australia’s most gifted, hardworking and versatile broadcasters – and a favourite of 2GB listeners,” 2GB Content Manager Luke Davis said.

“As we usher in a new era of 2GB Mornings, Mark will make the 9am-12pm timeslot his own, with a fresh take on what matters most to Sydneysiders.”

Levy grew up in Rockdale and attended Marist Kogarah for one year before moving to Sylvania High School for years eight to 12.

His first job was at TAB at the races as an on course operations manager. He was then at Sky Channel as a producer before landing casual work at 2GB in the newsroom, which led to a full-time job at the station.

In a 2019 interview with medianet, Levy spoke of the importance of developing a good on air personality.

“I was given some very valuable advice by Rod Gallegos (former chief of staff, Sky Racing) when I first started in the media – ‘just be yourself”, and I think it’s so important on radio because the listeners can see through someone who’s trying to be someone they’re not,” he said.

“I’m not afraid to share my strong opinions but, at the same time, it’s important for people to hear the lighter, fun side of your personality.”

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Originally published as Ray Hadley’s 2GB replacement revealed as Mark Levy