Jennifer Zamparelli has responded to speculation her RTÉ 2FM show is set for a “revamp” with a brand new co-host.
Amid her “extended break” from her morning radio show, rumours have been rife that a shakeup is on the cards.
Insiders have claimed 2FM bosses have plans to introduce a co-host in a bid to attract a younger audience.
A source told EVOKE: “Jen’s show is ticking along but the hard and simple fact is her numbers have stagnated. They’ve been hovering around the 143,000 mark for the past few JNLRs.
“She’s not losing listeners in massive numbers. But she’s not gaining either. That’s okay if you’ve a big audience but when you’re just over the 100,000 mark for consecutive JNLRs, then something has to change.”
Another insider claimed that there has been “tentative discussions” between Jennifer and 2FM boss Dan Healy about the future of her show.
The source said: “There were talks about the future direction of her show and contract renewal and other issues.
“Dan intimated that while he is a big fan of Jen, and thinks she is doing a great job, nonetheless shows need a shakeup.”
But in response to these claims, Jennifer denied reports that she would be joined by a new co-host when she returns, and categorically said: “This is completely false info!”
Meanwhile, a spokesperson for RTÉ declined to comment when contacted by the outlet.
Just last month, 2FM boss Dan Healy was forced to deny rumours of a dispute with Jennifer over her contract.
At the start of April, the popular presenter announced that she was taking an “extended” break from her radio show to go on holidays.
The news came amid industry speculation Jennifer was in a standoff with bosses relating to her contract, but these rumours have since been branded “bulls**t” by Mr Healy.
Speaking to the Sunday World, he said: “She’s on leave. It’s bullsh*t. Bullsh*t, bullsh*t, bullsh*t. She’s on leave. It’s farcical.”
“She posted on social media that she’s going on holidays. The 2 Johnnies were off from the 14th of December to the 20-something of January.”
The radio boss insisted he has no problem with Jennifer, and explained: “It’s the reverse. She’s brilliant, absolutely brilliant.”
“On the breakfast show from the very beginning with Bernard (O’Shea) and Keith – she’s an absolutely brilliant broadcaster. She’s a superstar, absolutely brilliant. It’s absolute nonsense.”
