Intern Pete’s New Chapter
Intern Pete, a well-known figure on The Kyle and Jackie O Show, has officially left the program just weeks after its unexpected end. Known to many as Peter Deppeler, he made the emotional announcement during a fill-in show with Mike E and Producer Mayo, marking the end of his 12-year tenure.
Despite this change, Pete will not be leaving the world of radio or ARN entirely. He is set to join The Christian O’Connell Show on KIIS FM’s sister station, Gold FM. In his heartfelt message, Pete expressed his gratitude to all the listeners who supported him over the years.
“Well, it’s time, I guess, for Intern Pete to graduate,” Pete began, struggling to hold back tears. “To everyone who’s listened over the years – thank you, genuinely. You are the reason Intern Pete became a thing in the first place. You made that name mean something, and I’ll always be grateful. Nothing lasts forever, as this year’s shown us…”
After revealing his new opportunity, he added: “I love what he’s building on Gold. No one does radio like him, and no one else did radio like Kyle and Jackie O. I’m so grateful. The next chapter starts now.”
Pete also shared how much he loved breakfast radio and thanked ARN for letting him “live the dream.” For over a decade, he was a beloved part of the show, known for his chaotic stunts, wild red carpet interviews, and attempts to get selfies with celebrities.
His departure came as a shock to many, especially after The Kyle and Jackie O Show ended abruptly following an on-air clash between the hosts on February 20. Sandilands and Henderson’s professional relationship fell apart after he criticized her interest in horoscopes in a now-infamous on-air argument.
Henderson was absent from the show the following week. ARN announced on March 3 that she would not return before confirming on March 18 that the show would not return. Sandilands’ contract was terminated for serious misconduct, while Henderson’s was terminated after she indicated she could no longer work with Sandilands.
Since then, both have launched separate lawsuits challenging the contract terminations and each claiming $82 million in compensation – the amount left to pay out on their $100 million five-year contracts signed in 2023. ARN is countersuing both Sandilands and Henderson and defending against their claims.
The network is also demanding the pair pay for advertising KIIS lost due to alleged contract breaches. The case is set to return to court in June.
A New Beginning
Intern Pete’s move to Gold FM marks a significant change in his career. While he will miss the familiar environment of The Kyle and Jackie O Show, he is excited about the opportunities ahead. His journey through the world of radio has been filled with memorable moments and unforgettable experiences.
Pete’s unique personality and energetic approach have made him a favorite among listeners. His antics and interactions with celebrities have brought laughter and entertainment to many. As he steps into his new role, fans are eager to see how he will adapt and thrive in his new environment.
With his passion for radio and dedication to his craft, Pete is sure to make an impact on Gold FM. His journey serves as a reminder of the ever-changing nature of the industry and the importance of embracing new challenges.
As he begins this new chapter, Pete remains grateful for the support he has received throughout his career. His story is a testament to the power of perseverance and the value of hard work.
