Darren Kennedy is to replace Brian Dowling on the Six O’Clock show.
Brian is stepping away from the show as he prepares to welcome his second child via surrogate with his husband Arthur Gourounlian.
This follows the presenter also taking a break from his 98FM radio show before the arrival of his newborn.
Taking to Instagram, Darren shared the exciting news, writing: Today was @BPRDOWLING ‘S last @SIXOCLOCKSHOW show for a while as he heads off on paternity leave to welcome baby number two.”
“I’m thrilled to step into his shoes and keep his seat warm alongside the fabulous Katja.”
“Having been a guest on the show several times over the years. I absolutely love everything about it – the energy, the fun, and the joy each evening.”
“So when they asked me if I’d be interested in guest hosting I jumped at the opportunity!!!”
He continued: “Wishing Brian, @GOUROUNLIAN, and Blake a wonderful summer with their new arrival. Exciting times and a busy season ahead for them!”
“A massive shoutout and a huge thank you to Brian and the entire team at the 6 O’Clock Show for trusting me to keep things running smoothly over the summer alongside the exceptionally talented and gorgeous person that is @KATJA MIAA.”
“Roll on Monday! I hope you’ll join us for our first show at 6 PM in Virgin Media. Let the fun begin!,” he added.
Following his last show, Brian took to Instagram to share a message, writing: “And Just Like That, MIC drop Brian OUT.”
“This was my last show on @sixoclockshow until the end of August, as I am off on some Paternity Leave for a few weeks.”
“I’m so excited to welcome Baby Dowling Gourounlian into the world & then spend the Summer enjoying time with my new baby & my gorgeous Blake ♥️”
“Now, don’t miss me too much, @katja_miaa. We will be reunited in no time 😘 Also, @gourounlian, it’s breakfast in bed for me for the foreseeable so LETS DO THIS ⚡💚😂”
This follows social media star and TV presenter James Patrice becoming co-host of Brian’s 98FM show with Suzanne Kane for the summer months.
James is no stranger to the 98FM audience, having joined Suzanne on the airwaves a number of times over the past few months.
Brian also took the opportunity to wish James the best of luck as he takes the hot seat later this month.
Clearly delighted about spending his summer mornings on 98FM, James Patrice said: “I’m absolutely buzzing to be joining the 98FM gang for an aul summer sizzle!”
“It’s such a joy to be working alongside the sensational Suzanne Kane, not to mention an honour to be stepping into the fabulous shoes of Brian while he celebrates the latest addition to his gorgeous family.”
“98FM has always been my go-to for a bitta craic and some banger tunes and I can’t wait to add my own pzazz to proceedings! What’s more, I get to do it with a broadcasting maven and total legend.”
“Suzanne and I have already had an absolute ball on the times I’ve filled in for Brian, so I can’t wait to see what we get up to five days a week! Summer in the city – it’s going to be fabulous!”
