RTE presenter Baz Ashmawy and Virgin Media star Brian Dowling have been pinned as the favourites to take over Jennifer Zamparell’s slot on 2FM.
Yesterday, Jennifer announced that she would be leaving the stationafter 10 years in a shock “difficult decision” move.
The 44-year-old, who hasn’t been on air in weeks, made the tough decision to leave to spend more time with her husband Lauterio and their two kids – daughter Florence, 9, and son Enzo, 6.
Following the breaking news of Jen’s departure from 2FM, bookies have already began to weigh in on who might take over the Dublin womans weekday slot on the radio.
According to Ladbrokes, Faithless starBaz Ashmawy has been tipped as the 3/1 favourite to replace Jennifer.
Popular Six O’Clock Show presenter Brian Dowling has also been named in the mix at 5/1, while Irish broadcaster Sile Seoige came in at 8/1.
And with fellow 2FM and Dancing With The Stars host Doireann Garrihy also leaving the station at the end of the month, the search for a new Breakfast Show host also ensues.
Galway woman, Laura Fox is the new favourite to replace Doireann.
The host of RTE’s ‘Ireland’s Fittest Family’ who already has her own successful weekend slot on 2FM, is said to be the 2/1 favourite to get the prime breakfast spot.
Also in the running for the breakfast slot are podcast duo Laurita Blewitt and Hector Ó’hEochagáin at 5/1 followed by Tracy Clifford at 6/1.
Speculation is also mounting after popular duo The 2 Johnnies made the shock announcement that they would be leaving their Drive It with the 2 Johnnies show on May 31.
Former Love Islandstar Greg O’Shea is in at 2/1 to replace the two lads, while Lottie Ryan is at 4/1 and Jenny Greene at 6/1.
Speaking on the RTE 2FM host shakeup, Nicola McGeady of Ladbrokes said: “Following today’s breaking news of Jennifer Zamparelli’s confirmed exit from 2FM, legendary broadcaster, Baz Ashmawy is favourite to take over her popular radio slot.
“As the 2FM shakeup continues and speculation is growing in relation to replacements for Doireann Garrihy and the 2 Johnnies, punters are all a flurry as to who will grace our airwaves in the future!”
And Jennifer wiped away her tears and “tried to hold it together” as she returned to RTE’s radio studio this morning for a shock farewell appearance.
Jennifer recorded herself sitting in her car before her interview and explained: “For me it really is a happy occasion, a celebration of the working with the most amazing people and having the best craic over the last 10 years.
“I did all my crying last night so I’m trying to hold it together.”
ZEN OUT
The mum-of-two bid her final farewell to her listeners and colleagues on Laura Fox’s 2FM show.
She said: “I would like to say, it’s been an absolute pleasure. Thank you for letting me grow as a presenter.
“I wouldn’t be the broadcaster and presenter I am today on Dancing With The Stars or on telly or running businesses if I didn’t have the opportunity in radio.
“Doing a live show every single day isn’t easy but it is the most amazing experience and I have laughed, I’ve made the most amazing friends.”
Jen jokingly said: “Will you have me back? No, okay.”
She ended her emotional goodbye saying: “I will be tuning in, that’s all I’m going to say, because I think the best is yet to come.”