New Zealand / Media & Technology

Peter Williams to leave Magic Talk

10:44 am on 6 September 2021

Broadcaster Peter Williams is leaving his role as Magic Talk Mornings host, Mediaworks has confirmed.

Magic Talk Mornings host Peter Williams is to retire. Photo: screenshot / Facebook

Williams, who is 67, has decided to retire after nearly half a century in the media industry, MediaWorks said.

Chief executive Cam Wallace said Williams wanted to enjoy a life with fewer commitments.

"Peter has signalled for some time that he's wanted to finish up and thinks now is the right time.

"I'd like to acknowledge his significant contribution to Magic Mornings over the past three years - there have been plenty of engaging and lively discussions."

MediaWorks confirmed that Magic Talk's Ryan Bridge will be the new host of the AM show, after Duncan Garner announced last month he was leaving the TV3 programme.

Duncan Garner. Photo: screenshot

Garner said he had decided to leave the show after five years because of "the brutal hours".

MediaWorks announced Lloyd Burr as its new drive show host after more than three years in London as Newshub's Europe correspondent. He will join Magic Talk at the end of September.

The company appointed Dallas Gurney, a former editor-in-chief and general manager of Newstalk ZB and Radio Sport, as its Director of News and Talk.