Australian radio personality Kris Fade has officially announced he will not be joining KIIS FM, ending weeks of speculation about a potential move back to Sydney. Fade, who has been based in Dubai for nearly two decades, had been widely tipped to take over the breakfast slot vacated by Kyle Sandilands and Jackie “O” Henderson after ARN terminated their $200 million contracts.
In a candid Instagram post on Monday, Fade explained that despite the offer being his “dream job back home,” he ultimately decided to stay in Dubai, where he has built his life with his wife Brianna and their son. “A few weeks ago, life threw me a curveball,” Fade wrote. “A month ago I was offered my dream job back home in Sydney. For anyone who has ever chased a dream, you’ll understand how significant that was for me.”
Fade’s decision to stay in Dubai
Fade acknowledged that Sydney holds his family, roots, and childhood memories, but after careful consideration, he chose to remain in the UAE. “I’m staying. Dubai is home,” he stated. “And this morning, I can tell you that I’ve officially stepped away from that opportunity in Sydney for now.” He expressed gratitude to ARN and the station’s management, saying, “I have nothing but respect and gratitude for you. And confident with the management team they have now, they will do unbelievably well.”
ARN confirmed to 7NEWS that Fade will not be part of KIIS FM’s plans. “We’re constantly having discussions with talented people that are reaching out with interest to be a part of ARN but Kris won’t be a part of KIIS plans for 2027,” a spokesperson said.
Fade’s career and impact in Dubai
Fade has become one of Dubai’s most prominent media figures, hosting The Kris Fade Show on Virgin Radio UAE. With over one million Instagram followers and a massive audience, his influence extends beyond radio into reality TV, having appeared on Netflix’s Dubai Bling. He reflected on his journey, leaving Sydney 19 years ago to chase a dream. “ARN and Dubai Holding have never felt like employers to me. They’ve felt like family,” Fade said. “Over nearly two decades, they’ve believed in me, backed me, challenged me, supported me and allowed me to become the person I am today.”
He also thanked his team and listeners: “Thank you for allowing a Lebanese, Australian kid to come here with a dream and build a life beyond anything he could have imagined. After 19 years, I’m still here. And if you’ll have me, I’m not done yet. Let’s keep going.”
Uncertainty remains for KIIS FM breakfast slot
Fade’s decision leaves the KIIS FM breakfast slot in limbo. Since Sandilands and Henderson’s lucrative partnership ended in February after a heated on-air feud, a revolving roster of guest hosts has filled in. The feud erupted when Henderson read Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor’s astrology chart in response to news of his arrest, leading to a behind-the-scenes clash that ultimately ended their $200 million contract with ARN.
Both Sandilands and Henderson have taken legal action. Last week, the Daily Telegraph reported Sandilands will receive $15 million after a legal settlement with ARN, providing $5 million annually over three years. ARN told 7NEWS it would not confirm details until a market update on Wednesday. Henderson launched separate legal action in March to contest her termination.
