Kent ‘Smallzy’ Small Steps In as Jackie ‘O’ Henderson Quits Radio Show

Kent ‘Smallzy’ Small took the airwaves on March 3, 2026, filling in for the now-disbanded The Kyle and Jackie O Show after co-host Jackie ‘O’ Henderson announced her departure. Henderson’s exit follows a highly publicized dispute with co-host Kyle Sandilands, leading to significant upheaval in the popular morning radio program.

Small expressed his disbelief during the morning broadcast, stating, “We are waking up to a very different KIIS.” He described the day as one of the most surreal in his radio career, acknowledging the emotional impact of the situation. “I’m not going to lie to you; this is probably one of the most insane days of my radio career,” he remarked, paying tribute to the duo he grew up listening to.

Termination of Contract and Fallout

The abrupt change comes after ARN (Australian Radio Network) announced the termination of Henderson’s $100 million contract. This decision followed her assertion that she could no longer work with Sandilands due to comments he made on-air that caused her distress. Sandilands has been suspended for a period of 14 days to address what ARN labeled as “serious misconduct,” with possible termination on the horizon if the situation is not remedied.

The KIIS FM breakfast show was immediately taken off the air as ARN initiated interim arrangements for the program. In a statement, ARN indicated that they have offered Henderson the option to host an alternative show within the network.

Henderson’s departure marks a significant moment in Australian radio, particularly given the longstanding partnership between her and Sandilands, which began nearly 27 years ago. Their collaboration was formalized in a $200 million deal in 2023, making headlines across the industry.

Background of the Dispute

The conflict reached a breaking point during a broadcast on February 20, 2026, where Sandilands criticized Henderson’s focus after she discussed Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor. During this exchange, Henderson became emotional and stated she felt deeply offended by Sandilands’ remarks. Following the incident, she took a leave of absence, initially expected to return on March 2, but later postponed.

Sandilands later expressed regret for his comments, acknowledging that he wished he had approached the situation differently. “I obviously upset her. Maybe, in hindsight, I shouldn’t have said it on the air,” he reflected. He added, “I want her to be happy and enjoy it. I also want the same thing.” Despite the turmoil, he insisted that the show would continue, dismissing rumors of its end.

Industry insiders have suggested that the show’s dynamic may have been deteriorating for some time. Former program director Craig Bruce noted that the duo’s long history could be contributing to their current strain. “They have spent half their lives in a small room together,” he stated, hinting that the tension was perhaps inevitable.

Entertainment journalist Peter Ford also weighed in, suggesting that Henderson’s departure might not be the end of the matter. He indicated that she had sought legal advice, emphasizing her desire to stand against workplace disrespect. “I think Jackie wants to take a stand to show her daughter, Kitty, that you don’t have to put up with it,” he stated.

As the future of KIIS FM’s flagship show hangs in the balance, listeners and industry watchers alike await further developments. ARN’s decisive actions highlight the seriousness of the situation, leaving questions about the future of both Sandilands and Henderson’s careers within the network.