A star radio duo whose show was savagely dumped has opened up about their shock exit – and their upcoming on-air return.
Veteran broadcasters Ben Harvey and Liam Stapleton’s Nova gig came to an end last year after the pair in September were told their show was being axed.
Harvey and Stapleton are now gearing up for their new Adelaide-based KIIS FM show, set to debut on Wednesday morning.
Ahead of the stars returning to the airwaves, the pair have since revealed what they were told by Nova before ‘Late Drive with Ben, Liam and Belle’ was dumped.
“We were informed that we weren’t getting another contract with Nova,” Stapleton told news.com.au.
“That’s how radio works sometimes”.
The broadcaster said working in radio was “the best gig ever”, but that he knew it wasn’t the “safest job in the world”.
“I think there was probably a good month or a bit where we were just sort of like, ‘oh well, that’s all she wrote,’” he said.
Speaking about the pair’s off-air break, Harvey said, “I think it does make you more grateful that you get to do the job that we do”.
“It’s pretty unbelievable that our job is to come in five days a week and talk to each other like that,” he said.
It comes after Nova in September last year announced Ben, Liam and cohost Belle Jackson’s show would be concluding.
“Since joining Nova in 2020, Ben, Liam and Belle have made a significant impact both on air and beyond,” a statement said, the publication previously reported.
“A hugely talented team and valued members of the Nova family, they have delivered excellent results for Nova and developed a unique connection to their audience.”
The radio stars were reportedly still under contract with Nova, despite having been absent from the airwaves for months.
In its announcement of the duo’s new show, KIIS FM alluded to Harvey and Stapleton having still been under contract by their former employer until now.
“Back in Adelaide. Back in Breakfast. Ben and Liam are coming home,” KIIS FM said in a statement posted on their website.
“After making headlines around the country, the duo have been legally restricted from starting earlier due to existing contractual obligations.
“Yes, the lawyers are involved. yes, there are clear rules around what they can and can’t do. For now.”
“Get ready for big laughs, great moments, unexpected turns, and plenty of local flavour.
“Ben and Liam are known for saying what everyone’s thinking, getting Adelaide talking, and making mornings feel lighter and a whole lot more fun.”
The broadcasters’ new show will air weekdays from 6–10am on KIIS 1023.
SkyNews.com.au has contacted Nova for comment.