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2GB and presenter Chris Smith to part ways

2GB’s afternoon host Chris Smith will finish up with the Macquarie Media-owned station on 31 July.

The broadcaster issued a statement this afternoon, immediately after Smith’s timeslot ended, saying they have “agreed to end their working relationship”.

Smith embarks on a pre-planned three-week holiday from tomorrow, 2GB said, and will then finish his broadcasting on 31 July.

“Neither 2GB nor Chris Smith will be making any further comment on the matter. We wish Chris well in his future endeavours,” a media release from Macquarie Media CEO Adam Lang said.

“Chris would like to thank 2GB listeners for their ongoing support.”

The Daily Telegraph reported this afternoon there was a small protest from listeners outside Macquarie Media today, urging the media outlet to hang onto Smith.

Media speculation has been rife in recent weeks about the longevity of the relationship between Smith and 2GB, with some speculating he was due to be “sacked” this week.

It is understood there were moves to shift Smith into the night-time sport, currently occupied by Steve Price, but Smith wanted to remain where he was.

2GB is the market leader in Sydney radio, with a 15.3% share overall in the most recent radio ratings survey. The afternoon slot, measured from 12pm to 4pm has a 12.5% share. Ben Fordham occupies the 3pm to 6pm slot on 2GB.

Alan Jones recently signed a new two-year contract with 2GB, which came into effect yesterday.

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