Dubai-Based Radio Star Confirms Talks with Australian Radio Network
Kris Fade, a renowned radio host based in Dubai, has confirmed that he was in discussions with the Australian Radio Network (ARN) regarding a potential role in replacing The Kyle and Jackie O Show. This revelation comes after weeks of speculation about his possible return to Australia.
Fade, an Australian-born radio personality who has achieved significant success in the Middle East, shared details of these talks during a recent appearance on the GameChangers podcast hosted by Craig Bruce. According to Bruce, Fade mentioned that ARN approached him during the Radio Days Toronto conference for general discussions.
When asked directly about the rumors, Fade responded that he “had a conversation with ARN” but emphasized that there was “nothing on the table from them in terms of a specific offer.” This statement suggests that while interest was shown, no formal proposal had been made at the time.
A Cheeky Instagram Video
In a lighthearted twist, the former boss of 2DayFM, Craig Bruce, posted a humorous video on Instagram a few days ago. In the clip, he approached Fade at the Canadian radio event while recording him, starting with a compliment: “Great presentation, mate,” he said. “I’m not even going to ask you the question, Kris.”
In response, Fade grabbed the camera, seemingly addressing the ongoing rumors. “I’m saying nothing. I’m saying absolutely nothing,” he said. “You think I’m going to say anything? Listen, firstly, I want to say thank you for all the beautiful words you’ve said. I’m happy in Dubai, I’m in Dubai. But, you know, whatever happens, happens. We’ll see where life takes you, you never know.”
KIIS FM’s Search for a New Host
KIIS FM has been experimenting with temporary hosts since the cancellation of The Kyle and Jackie O Show and its hosts, Kyle Sandilands and Jackie ‘O’ Henderson. Fade’s name has frequently surfaced as a potential replacement, although he has remained tight-lipped about any potential role.
For weeks, Fade has been avoiding questions about whether he would consider moving back to Australia permanently to fill the gap in KIIS’s breakfast radio slot. The media frenzy began after industry veterans Jen Seyderhelm and Steve Ahern mentioned the possibility of Fade as a replacement in an episode of RadioToday posted on April 9.
At the time, Nine.com.au reached out to Fade, who declined to comment on the matter.
Financial Considerations and Personal Life
If Fade were to move his show to ARN, it raises questions about whether the network could offer a salary attractive enough for the wealthy Dubai socialite. A source told Nine.com.au that “Kris Fade is the biggest name in entertainment in Dubai.” The source added that he has interviewed major Hollywood stars, including Kim Kardashian and Will Smith, who even helped him propose to his wife.
“The amount of money he’d have to be offered would be huge – we’re talking millions a year – to leave Dubai, which he has called his home for so many years,” the source explained.
Interestingly, Fade’s wife, Brianna Ramirez (now Brianna Fade), and their son have recently been spotted in Sydney, fueling further speculation about his potential return to Australia.
A History with KIIS FM
Fade already has a connection with KIIS FM. In 2018, the network picked up the Australian-focused version of his show, which aired every Sunday for several years. This indicates that there may be a pre-existing relationship between Fade and the network.
From Sydney to Dubai
Kris Fade is an Australian national who moved from Sydney to Dubai in 2008. He landed a job on Virgin Radio and quickly became a household name in the UAE with his popular breakfast program, The Kris Fade Show. Like The Kyle and Jackie O Show once did in Australia, his show is the most listened-to radio breakfast program in the UAE.
Fade also appeared in Netflix’s reality series Dubai Bling alongside his wife. His fame in the Middle East is so immense that Madame Tussauds Dubai honored him with a wax figure.
ARN’s Recent Challenges
It’s worth noting that ARN recently pulled a $200 million deal with Jackie O Henderson and Kyle Sandilands following a controversial on-air incident. This development has left a void in the market for a new breakfast radio host, making Fade’s potential return even more intriguing.
