triple j has today announced that after 1172 shows they are farewelling Tom Ballard, as he embarks on new adventures.
At only 24 years old, Tom has been a crucial part of triple j for the last seven years. Alongside co-host and best friend Alex Dyson, Tom began broadcasting on triple j at 17 years old, and took over the triple j Breakfast show at the age of 20.
During that time the station and listeners have seen Tom turn 21, interview comedians every Good Az Friday, become a worldwide Kewl Dude, generously contribute to the nation’s fitness through Tom and Alexcercise, help raise funds for East Africa by eating gross things, help raise funds for Syrian refugees by singing in the nude, and regularly letting his Dad Neil tell Australia what he thinks of today’s music in the much loved Feature Album Dad Reviews.
Tom also regularly hosted the triple j Hottest 100 Australia Day countdown with the nation, thrown parties around the country for no particular reason and some very good reasons, presented shows with guest hosts such as the Foo Fighters and Flight of the Conchords, consistently brought listeners their weekly ‘Like A Version’, and interviewed countless celebrity and international guests.
He is currently nominated for an ARIA Award for Tom & Alex: The Bits We’re Least Ashamed Of, a CD compilation celebrating all of the shows mischef.
Tom said: “For the past seven years I’ve been paid to wake up with one of my best friends in the whole world, talk shit, wear zentai suits, laugh at my dad, drink instant coffee and play good music. It’s been the sweetest of gigs, but I feel like now’s the right time for me to try new things. This will give me an opportunity to focus on my real passions: standup comedy and not getting up at 4am.”
triple j said: “We’re incredibly proud of Tom and it’s with our full support that he heads off to focus on his comedy career full time. We wish him all the best and look forward to seeing his continued success.”
Tom and Alex will broadcast live from The Metro in Sydney on Fri 13 Dec, in what will be a huge last show with lots of familiar faces and friends of the show, including a live Like A Version.
Alex Dyson will remain on as a triple j Breakfast host and his new co-host is set to be announced on Tuesday December 3rd.