The radio landscape is shifting for several prominent broadcasters as Times Radio announces a revamped weekend schedule, bringing both established voices and fresh faces to its lineup. Among the most notable additions are Jane Mulkerrins and Ryan Tubridy, both set to launch new shows later this month.
Ryan Tubridy, formerly of RTÉ and recently concluding a stint at Virgin Radio UK, will host a Sunday afternoon program on Times Radio. The move marks a continuation of Tubridy’s broadcasting career, which has spanned radio and television in both Ireland and the UK. He announced his departure from Virgin Radio in December, but remained with the company in a production capacity. His new show, launching on , promises “an eclectic mix of news and reviews,” covering politics, culture, and current affairs. “I couldn’t be happier to be joining Times Radio on a Sunday afternoon,” Tubridy said. “We’ll have an eclectic mix of news and reviews. From politics to popular culture, we’ll tell you what you need to know. I can’t wait to get started.”
Alongside Tubridy, Jane Mulkerrins, currently the associate editor of The Times Magazine and a regular contributor to Times Radio, will take the helm of the Saturday afternoon slot. Her show, also debuting on , will blend news, politics, and culture, drawing on contributors from across The Times newspaper and the wider arts world. Mulkerrins expressed her enthusiasm, stating, “I’m thrilled to be joining Times Radio’s brilliant team of presenters on a regular basis, bringing news, politics, culture and a sprinkling of showbiz to Saturday afternoons.” She previously guest-presented on Times Radio last summer, attracting notable guests such as Björn Ulvaeus of ABBA and chef Heston Blumenthal.
The schedule overhaul, launching on , isn’t limited to the weekend afternoons. Times Radio Breakfast will also see a change, with Rosie Wright joining Calum Macdonald as a co-host from Friday to Sunday, 6-10am. Wright previously presented Early Breakfast and is now expanding her role within the station’s weekend programming.
These appointments come as Times Radio seeks to refine its editorial approach. The changes result in Chloe Tilley and Alexis Conran stepping down from their weekend roles to pursue other media projects after several years with the station. Programme Director Tim Levell acknowledged their contributions while emphasizing the new direction. “The new appointments reflected Times Radio’s editorial approach,” Levell said, also thanking the departing presenters for their service.
The arrival of Tubridy and Mulkerrins signals a strategic move by Times Radio to bolster its weekend programming with high-profile talent. Tubridy’s extensive experience in both Irish and UK broadcasting, coupled with Mulkerrins’ established role within The Times, positions the station to attract a broader audience and further solidify its presence in the competitive UK radio market. The focus on current affairs, books, and interviews in Tubridy’s show, alongside Mulkerrins’ blend of news, politics, and culture, suggests a deliberate effort to cater to a discerning and engaged listenership.
Tubridy’s move to Times Radio follows his departure from Virgin Radio, where he hosted the mid-morning slot for two years. While his exit from Virgin Radio marked a change, he remained with the company in a production role, hinting at continued involvement in the UK broadcasting scene. His new role at Times Radio appears to be a significant step, offering him a platform to explore a wider range of topics and engage with a new audience.
Mulkerrins’ transition to a regular weekend show builds on her existing relationship with Times Radio and leverages her position as associate editor of The Times Magazine. Her ability to attract high-profile guests during her previous appearances suggests a strong network and a talent for insightful interviewing, qualities that are likely to be central to her new program.
The updated schedule represents a clear attempt by Times Radio to capitalize on the strengths of its existing team and attract new listeners with established names. The changes, set to take effect later this month, will be closely watched by industry observers as the station seeks to further establish itself as a key player in the UK’s evolving radio landscape.
