Ryan Bridge eyed as top contender for Newstalk ZB’s Early Edition morning show

According to legacy media reports Ryan Bridge, the former host of Three’s AM Show, is the frontrunner to take over the 5am to 6am slot on Newstalk ZB’s Early Edition morning programme.

Bridge, initially in talks for his own 7pm current affairs show at another network, has pivoted to negotiations with NZME, the parent company of Newstalk ZB, following recent changes in the media landscape.

Bridge declined to comment to media, and brings previous radio experience to the table, having worked as a business reporter on RNZ’s Morning Report and hosted drive-time shows on Magic Talk and Today FM before his stint on The AM Show.

The vacancy in the Early Edition hosting seat arose after Kate Hawkesby’s departure at the end of 2023. During her six-year tenure, the show under her stewardship consistently topped surveys, reaching a remarkable 38 percent total New Zealand share by the end of 2021, according to Jason Winstanley, NZME’s chief audio officer.

However, despite speculation surrounding Bridge’s potential appointment, NZME has remained tight-lipped, stating that Hawkesby has yet to be officially replaced, and they cannot confirm Bridge’s rumoured transition to Newstalk ZB at this time.