Radio stars are ‘shocked’ by KIIS-FM presenter Mitch Churi’s shocking defeat – so many fear they could be next

KIIS FM presenter Mitch Churi broke down last week when he confirmed he had been sacked from the station – and his dismissal has taken a significant toll on morale at ARN.

The popular radio star’s shocking sacking is said to have shocked staff at ARN – formerly known as the Australian Radio Network, which owns the KIIS stations – with many wondering how secure their job is at the station.

“Mitch being shown the door shook the whole company. “I don’t think people fully understand how important he was to the company culture,” an insider told Pedestrian.

“Nobody is safe. The cancellation of Mitch’s shows is a stark reminder that the industry is dying.

“If ARN’s only homegrown talent is cut like this, there is no hope for the future of the industry.”

They added that ARN may have made the difficult decision to cut the well-paid star in order to raise money to pay Kyle Sandilands and Jackie “O” Henderson, who have a 10-year, $20 million contract.

KIIS FM presenter Mitch Churi broke down last week when he confirmed he had been sacked from the station – and his dismissal has taken a significant toll on morale at ARN

When contacted about the issue, Mitch declined to comment to Daily Mail Australia.

Earlier this week, another radio insider also said he believed ARN fired Churi because of Kyle and Jackie O’s contract.

Former radio executive Craig Bruce said on his podcast Game Changers Radio: Melbourne Radio Wars: “You can understand it purely from a financial perspective.”

“Let’s say Mitch makes $100,000 a year.” ARN would look at that and say, “Okay, we have a breakfast show on the KIIS network for the next 10 years, so that’s set and we have a drive show.” ..so why on earth should we spend so much money on an overnight talent when we don’t get a return on it?’

Bruce admitted: “If I had been in that room I would have voted for (Churi to be axed).” I just can’t justify that wage at the moment considering we’re currently on a channel that’s a or two shows, and that’s it.”

Mitch, who has co-hosted the drive-time show The Pick Up with Laura and Brittany since 2019, became emotional on air as he shared the heartbreaking news with his co-stars.

“Late last week, I was informed by those in charge that they have identified my role here as one that will not return in 2025,” Mitch began.

Mitch then revealed that he was surprised by the decision and wished it hadn’t come to this.

The 28-year-old, who has co-hosted drive-time show The Pick Up alongside Laura Byrne and Brittany Hockley since 2019, was fired last week, leaving his former colleagues in shock

An insider said ARN may have made the difficult decision to sack Mitch in order to raise money to fund the channel’s big stars Kyle Sandilands and Jackie ‘O’ Henderson (pictured).

“I just want to say that it wasn’t my choice or my decision. “I really wanted to stay on the show with you both. I really wanted to stay at KIIS.’

Co-star Laura, 38, jumped in and said that she and Brittany fully supported Mitch and wished him all the best for the future.

“That’s not what we want for the show.” It’s a decision that’s out of our control. “Britt and I have to continue the show without you and we are completely devastated,” Laura said.

“Not only are you our co-host, but you’re also one of our best friends,” Brittany interjected.

Luckily, Mitch can give listeners a proper farewell as he remains on the air until the end of the year.