Veteran broadcaster Alan Jones to leave Sky News after being dumped from prime time post

Veteran broadcaster Alan Jones has left Sky News after being dumped from his prime time post.

In a lengthy statement on his Facebook page, the 80-year-old radio and TV personality revealed the network didn’t renew his four nights a week contract, which ends on November 30.

However Jones will not see out his contract and will host his final program at 8pm tonight.

“At a meeting on Friday, October 29 I wasn’t offered another slot with Sky News, but an alternative offer was made to me to appear once a week on the news streaming service, Flash,” he said.

“I declined that offer.”

Sky News Australia chief executive officer Paul Whittaker said he respected Jones’ decision to leave the network.

“Regrettably Alan has decided not to accept a new role that was offered to him for next year,” he said.

“We respect his decision and know he will be missed by many.

“Alan has contributed greatly to Sky News Australia over the years, advocating without fear or favour on the issues important to many Australians.”

His departure comes just months after his regular column in Sydney’s Daily Telegraph was scrapped after the paper’s editor Ben English said Jones no longer resonated with readers.

The former 2GB shock jock was known for his conservative views and controversial commentary on topics such as COVID-19 and restrictions as well as climate change.

Last month Sky News Australia’s YouTube account was banned from uploading content for seven days for sharing misinformation.

Jones joined Sky News in 2013 as the co-host of discussion program Richo + Jones, before hosting Jones & Co in 2016 and The Alan Jones Program since July last year.

“May I say, I have enjoyed my experience thoroughly,” Jones said.

“I have had nothing but support from people in the backroom of Sky News who rarely get a mention; and, apart from my contribution towards raising the viewer numbers, I hope I have also contributed to the morale of the organisation.”