KIIS 1065’s Brooklyn Ross on why radio is one of the most accepting industries of LGBTI employees

Staff Writer

Being a radio newsreader may not be as glamorous as the life of on-air host, but it is a role that (at times) attracts just as much recognition and familiarity as their radio show counterparts.

Brooklyn Ross is no stranger to listeners of the Kyle and Jackie O on KIIS 1065 in Sydney – his Instagram handle even reads “KIIS Brooklyn” – yet it’s his identity as the “gay newsreader” that offers the young journalist the opportunity to use the platform of radio for good.

Not only has Ross been with the breakfast duo since early 2015, he’s also the founder and content director of Gay Pop Radio, a network of app-based LGBTI radio stations in Australia – a long way from his early beginnings at Power FM in Bega just over 10 years ago.

His profile was recently highlighted by online gay magazine Eikon, where he recalled the antics he’s been part on thanks to his role as breakfast newsreader – including reading the news naked from Sydney’s busiest road, being covered with insects and snakes while on-air, and having ex-boyfriends brought into the studio to reveal what he’s really like.

“To be honest, every day seems to bring something crazier to the show,” he told the publication.

“You can’t be too private when you spend four hours of each day chatting amongst friends – as the whole of Australia is listening.

Speaking on how has it been for him being gay in the radio industry, Ross told Radio Today that it is one of the most positive environments to be working in.

“I think most would agree radio has been one of the most accepting industries of LGBTI employees over the decades – there are just so many of us!”

“When I landed a job at 2CC Canberra I found myself working with about five other gay guys, and it was encouragement enough for me to come out at work, and later to my family and friends,” he added.

“Now I work for KIIS1065, the media parter of the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras and a massive supporter of marriage equality. It’s a fabulous industry to be a part of!”

Comment Form

Your email address will not be published.

Recent comments (0)
Post new comment

Jobs

See all