Kyle Sandilands teased a new career move on Wednesday night, April 29, and while loyal fans are excited for the shock jock’s return, the financial success of this potential move away from broadcasting is still up for debate.
Kyle and Jackie ‘O’ Henderson from The Kyle and Jackie O Show on KIIS FM had their 10-year and $200 million contract cancelled in March after an on-air feud led to Jackie exiting the show, Kyle’s contract being terminated after a two-week suspension, and lawsuits and counter-lawsuits being carried out between the former radio co-hosts and their former network, ARN.
While Kyle has been busy with other nationally broadcasted gigs like Australian Idol, the radio star has moved to social media to tease a new career path, with his longtime manager and his former KIISFM breakfast show’s director Bruno Bouchet still by his side.
Is Kyle Sandilands moving away from radio?
Kyle announced his post-KIISFM comeback in an Instagram post on a fan account this week.
“G’day on the fan page. What a surprise that I’ve even got fans left,” Sandilands joked. “Guys, thank you for your support, I’ve read all of it.”
“Let me tell you a little secret, ssh, don’t tell anyone, but I’m working on a new project and all will be revealed soon.
“Thank you for your prayers, coming back guys bigger than ever.”
In the caption for the post, Kyle’s “surprise” career move seems to be sending him to the podcast world, as he trades live airwaves for pre-recorded ones.
His manager, Bouchet, also appeared in the video as the pair discussed Kyle’s new fitness regime.
Bouchet was made redundant from his role on The Kyle and Jackie O Show when the breakfast segment imploded, which he confirmed to Mumbrella on April 28.
However, as managing director of Sandilands’ company King Kyle Pty Ltd. and his manager since 2018, it’s not unusual to see the pair continuing to work together.
This video had fans stoked this week about his return.
“I miss him so much !!!!! Hurry back Kyle!!!!” one fan wrote on his teaser video.
“Can’t wait for KYLE LIVE,” another commented. “I feel a new dawn is about to begin.”
However, while fans seem to be excited, the success of this career shift towards podcasting has raised some red flags, as industry experts are questioning the financial reality and return of a personality that many sponsors are steering clear of.
What brands will want to sponsor this move?
While Sandiland’s business empire is worth a reported $100 million, questions remain over what brands would want to sponsor a subscription-based podcast, as Channel 7‘s Sunrise noted, from such a polarising personality like Sandilands.
Lobbying groups like Mad Fing Witches (MFW), founded by Jennie Hill, have led to major companies, including AMP, Bendigo Bank, Flight Centre, and Australian Super, reviewing or stopping their advertising on the Kyle and Jackie O show in the past; and the same advertising concerns remain true for Kyle’s potential step into the podcasting world.
Will long-time fans of the shock jock keep him afloat and opt for a paid subscription, with this teaser video proof to send to advertisers?
Or will Kyle Sandlands’ new career move end before it begins?
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