Brian Dowling to quit 98FM show following co-host Suzanne Kane's exit

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2 days ago

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Brian Dowling and Suzanne Kane have bid farewell to their mid-morning radio gig on Dublin's 98FM.
Suzanne stepped into the 98FM scene in 2021, taking the reins from Adrian Kennedy and Jeremy Dixon's Dublin Talks. The year 2023 saw Brian Dowling hopping on board as her co-host.
Suzanne, a familiar face from Ireland AM and RTÉ's Today Show, has been off the airwaves since late February. After much rumour and speculation, the broadcaster has now confirmed her departure from the station, reports RSVP Live.
On Instagram, she shared: "After nearly 5 years, I'm stepping away from my role presenting 10AM to 1PM on 98FM. Anyone who knows me, will know how much I adore radio and the Bauer family inside Marconi house, but for now, it's time to let the 'Good Times' roll for someone else.
"A word to the amazing team, I loved the madness and radio nerdiness that we all shared and how much we cared. Radio is really special and that's because of the people who do the heavy lifting to make it all come together. I'm glad to have been on this rollercoaster with you all.
"To everyone who listened to the show. I loved sharing my life and my kids with the soundest listeners on 98FM. We've been through a lot together and thank you for always turning up for me, it means more than any of you will know."
Suzanne bid an emotional farewell to her 98FM show, thanking her children and husband for their unwavering support throughout her time on the programme. She said: "Lastly, a quick word to my kiddos Oisín, Hannah and Sadie.
"Thank you for letting me have a go of my dream radio job and playing ball every morning, even the really tough ones, so I could be in front of the mic by 10am and of course, [her husband] Joey. The voice of support, the constant, the reassurance, who always has the reminder 'We'll figure it out, we alway do'. Onward to the next adventure."
Meanwhile, her co-host revealed that his final show on the station would be on Friday, June 6. Dowling had been hosting the show alongside Leanne Hanafin in Kane's absence.
In a statement, Dowling said: "I made the decision earlier in the year that I would not be continuing co-hosting on Brian Dowling and Suzanne Kane on @98fmdublin making this Friday June 6th my very last show on Brian Dowling and Suzanne Kane."
He reflected on his time on the show, saying: "When I joined Suzanne back in March of 2023, I had ZERO radio hosting skills. Blake was only 6 months old and baby Blu was only a twinkle in our eyes."
Dowling added that it took him some time to adjust to his new role but ultimately had an incredible experience. "It took me a minute to get into my new groove, but when I did, WOW, I honestly have had the best time and have genuinely laughed every day; even on those bad days, being part of this show ALWAYS puts a smile on my face."
He concluded by saying, "Here we are now 2 years and 3 months later and I'm still laughing and smiling. I have learned so much about an industry I've been in for nearly 24 years, presenting mainly television shows but now my love for radio easily equals my love for telly.
"A MASSIVE HEARTFELT. Thank you to the team, Russell and Cathal. You guys make the show what it is, and especially to you, Pat Gill, for making this experience UTTERLY JOYFUL for me. Also, to you, James Brownlow, thanks for taking the risk on me.
"It has never ever felt like work; I mean, how could it when I'm playing the likes of Britney, S Club and JLO, to name but a few. I am so looking forward to a slower Summer; I'm not actually sure if I can operate on a slower pace.
"Normality will continue on Six and of course, shooting the rest of The Salvage Squad this summer, as well as some trips away I've planned; in fact, it's turning out to be a very memorable Summer.
"The BIGGEST THANK YOU goes to our listeners; you guys are the best, as you have kept me company 5 days a week for the last 2 years and 3 months. Your daily messages have brightened my days from 10am - 1pm.
"Goodbyes are not something I'm very good at, but this doesn't feel like a goodbye at all; it's more of a talk to you later. This is Brian Dowling and you are listening to 98FM."
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