Sammy J, the beloved host of ABC Radio Melbourne’s Breakfast show, will step away from the microphone after five years – with his last show on Friday 13 December.
The team at the ABC are sending him off in style with a free party for listeners at the Melbourne Museum Plaza on Thursday 12 December. This will be Sammy’s final outside broadcast and listeners are invited to attend “for an unforgettable morning of laughter, community and heartfelt goodbyes.”
Since joining in 2020, just before the pandemic, Sammy J became a vital source of humor and connection for listeners during lockdowns.
Known for his quick wit and creativity, he brought a unique perspective to news and current affairs, often through clever songs and parodies that tackled everything from local politics to cultural quirks.
During his tenure, Sammy J created memorable moments such as a 24-hour charity broadcast and skits celebrating ABC Radio Melbourne’s centenary.
His time on breakfast has been marked by engaging interviews, from political leaders to magicians, and a deep bond with his audience.
And, more recently, Sammy has been “living rent-free inside Kyle Sandilands’ head”. This is a reference to a playful jab the comedian made after he performed better in the radio ratings following KIIS FM’s disastrous attempt to syndicate Kyle and Jackie O’s breakfast show from Sydney to Melbourne. Sammy jokingly declared himself Kyle’s “white whale,” destined to haunt the KIIS FM host forever.
In response, Sandilands dismissed Sammy J, claiming to have never heard of him, which Sammy escalated with a mock “rent” GoFundMe campaign, humorously suggesting he needed funds to pay for living in Kyle’s head. The fundraiser, cleverly linked to charity Big Brothers Big Sisters Australia, quickly exceeded its target, raising thousands for a good cause
A new hosting team will take over ABC Radio Melbourne Breakfast in 2025.
