Australian broadcaster, Ray Hadley OAM, has announced his retirement at the end of 2024, marking the end of a 43-year career in radio.

Hadley's career has spanned talkback, sport, and music broadcasting, leaving a significant impact on Australian media. He began his career in 1981 as a traffic reporter on 2UE, transitioning to 2GB in 2001. The Ray Hadley Morning Show first aired on March 4, 2002, and over the next 21 years, Hadley achieved 160 consecutive ratings wins.

Hadley has called 99 State of Origin games, 35 Rugby League Grand Finals, and thousands of club games. He has also commented at three Rugby World Cups and seven Olympic Games. In 2024, the Sydney Football Stadium honoured Hadley’s contribution to sports with the unveiling of The Ray Hadley Commentary Box.

Hadley is the most decorated host in Australian Commercial Radio Award (ACRA) history, with 35 awards and a 2017 induction into the ACRA Hall of Fame. In 2003, Hadley received a Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) for his commitment to rugby league and extensive fundraising efforts for charities.

The Ray Hadley Country Music Countdown, which has run for 573 episodes over 16 years, has spotlighted emerging talent in Australian country music. This year, Hadley received the Country Music Capital Award at the Golden Guitar Awards.

"My own four children made many sacrifices for me over the years, allowing me to realise my ambitions, and I want to spend more time with them and my seven grandchildren. Sophie has been the most supporting, calming, loving and amazing wife - and she deserves a break too," Hadley said.

"I've had the ride of my life at 2GB for more than 23 years, firstly under the ownership of John Singleton and more recently with Nine Entertainment and Nine Radio. I leave the network with me owing 2GB everything for my success and longevity. I wish all my colleagues continued success."

Tom Malone, Nine Radio’s Managing Director, said, "We’ll likely never see another broadcaster of Ray’s versatility, longevity and ratings success. While the 2GB listeners will miss that familiar jingle and voice at 9am every day, I’m sure they wish Ray all the best in retirement with Sophie and the family."

Luke Davis, Sydney content manager, added, "Ray Hadley's contribution to Australian radio and millions of listeners over the years can be marked by volume, impact and tenure. I know Ray is looking forward to spending more time with Sophie, his four children, his seven cherished grandchildren and perhaps a few more rounds of golf."

Hadley's final day on air will be Friday, 13 December, 2024. A new host for the 2GB Morning Program will be announced in due course.