O’Connell’s stunning radio ratings milestone

The popular Brit improved slightly to record a 8.9 per cent share with FOX FM’s Fifi, Fev and Nick next best on 6.7.“I hope the show is a sliver of joy, hope and light in these tough times,’’ O’Connell said.Smoothfm’s Jennifer Hansen and Mike Perso were steady on 6.3, just ahead of Nova’s Chrissie, Sam and Browny on 6.2.KIIS FM dropped to a lowly 4.6 but the next radio results will be telling after Lauren Phillips replaced PJ Harding as co-host on August 9. She and Jase Hawkins have established a strong rapport so far on a new-look program.Triple M’s Marty Sheargold dropped to 3.8. When long-time duo Eddie McGuire and Luke Darcy bowed out last year, the show was sitting on 6.8.Elsewhere in breakfast, ABC’s Sammy J made strong gains, going from 13.8 to 16.0, and closing the gap on dominant 3AW. Russel Howcroft and Ross Stevenson still grew their audience to lead on 20.8.GOLD FM was also the top rating FM station in mornings and afternoons, with Gavin Miller still ahead in drive (10.7) and almost drawing level with AM counterparts 3AW and ABC (11.7).FOX FM’s Carrie Bickmore and Tommy Little recorded 8.1, followed closely by smoothfm (7.9) and Nova’s Kate, Tim and Joel (7.4). Triple M’s Mick Molloy gained some listeners going from 5.2 to 5.8.Sports station SEN’s figures showed high profile breakfast and morning programs both on 2.9 with the best result in drive from 2.4 to 3.2 and afternoons on 3.7.The survey five period took place from May 23-June 26 and July 11-August 14.