Jim Wilson debut on 2GB Drive sparks new sensation

2GB's Jim Wilson with NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian / 2gb.com

Former Seven sports presenter Jim Wilson has arrived at 2GB Sydney.

Nine Radio named Wilson as Ben Fordham’s permanent replacement last month, relieving Mark Levy who has been hosting since Fordham moved into Breakfast.

The broadcaster opened his first Drive program on Monday (July 6) with INXS’s chart-topping smash ‘New Sensation’, declaring “we’ve gotta support our Australian music industry”.

“I am a long-time listener and contributor to this station and network, but I am a first-time host,” Wilson said during his opening remarks.

“I won’t be reinventing the wheel. The man who was in the chair for the best part of a decade did an absolutely fantastic job,” he said, referring to Fordham.

Big-name guests on his 3pm to 6pm show included multiple station regulars. The Prime Minister and the NSW Premier dropped by the studio and former PM Julia Gillard called-in.

Wilson also acknowledged Nine Radio boss and “good mate” Tam Malone, along with content director Greg Byrnes, thanking them both for backing him and “having faith”.

Sky News host and former 2GB shock jock Alan Jones didn’t go unmentioned. Wilson wished him “good luck” for his new prime-time TV gig and welcomed some of Jones’ former staffers.

“Our brilliant team is led by Paul Christenson who produced the legendary Alan Jones for three decades,” Wilson said. “And Alan good luck to you tonight with your new show on Sky.

“I am lucky to have you Paul, and to producers Tara and Matt, we are going to have a lot of fun.

Wilson also promised “wingman” and “panel operator extraordinaire” Jordan that he won’t touch the buttons as he settles into his new job: driving Sydney radio listeners home.