Kyle and Jackie O sign to Australian Radio Network

After confirming they were in talks with the pair, ARN have this morning announced that Kyle and Jackie O will be joining the network in 2014, as part of the Sydney 1065 team.

ARN’s Chief Executive Ciaran Davis says of the signing: “Kyle and Jackie are one of the world’s biggest radio shows, and are joined every day by the world’s biggest stars. It’s unprecedented to have the country’s #1 radio team move networks to create a brand new station and we couldn’t be happier that they’ve made this switch with us.

“ARN are all about retaining and attracting the best talent. We have some of Australia’s strongest on-air talent across the network nationally and now with Kyle and Jackie on 1065 and Jonesy & Amanda on WSFM, we have the two best breakfast shows in Sydney. After several years of continual growth, this is another step forward in our plans, and while we’re now in the best possible place to take out the #1 and #2 FM positions, it’s the listeners and advertisers who will be the clear winners.”

The duo announced their departure from 2Day live on air during their November 1 show, broadcasting their final show on the network this morning.

A pay dispute was rumoured to be behind the pair jumping ship, however all parties have denied this. ARN’s partnership with the massive Clear Channel seems more likely to have been a factor, with the ability to broadcast Kyle and Jackie O to 100 stations throughout the US, UK and the Middle East an attractive prospect.