Today FM star Muireann O’Connell admitted being “fired” was “embarrassing” as bosses announced she is to be replaced by Mairead Ronan.
Fellow presenter Louise Duffy has also been pulled from the airwaves and will be replaced by Ed Smith, who covered her maternity leave last year.
Reacting to the news, Virgin Media One presenter Muireann said: “It’s embarrassing and I’m a bit sad but I love almost everyone in that station and wish them all the best in the future. Mairead Ronan will be great.”
Industry pals rallied around the 34-year-old today to lend their support following her honest response to being axed.
Weekend AM presenter Anna Daly said: “Sorry to hear this but onwards and upwards for sure.”
Former model Yvonne Connolly commented: “What the hell? Muireann. You are amazing and they will be queuing up for you.”
Meanwhile, Duffy, 35, who is married to former GAA star Paul Galvin, said: “I’ve had eight wonderful years working with my friends and I’m excited for something new.
“Thank you for listening to me from early morning to late evening.
“I’ll miss my lovely listeners, I’ll miss my brilliant colleagues, I won’t miss missing bedtime five nights of the week – all good things.”
Dancing With The Stars’ winner Mairead, previously worked as a Today FM co-producer and is a regular contributor to the Ray D’Arcy Show.
The Ireland’s Fittest Family presenter said she was “thrilled” to be returning with her own show adding: “This was always a dream of mine, ever since I was making coffee and posting prizes at the very start of my radio career.”
Mairead will take over from Muireann’s 12pm to 2pm slot in September, while Louise’s 7pm show Lost In Music will be hosted by Ed Smith under the new name National Anthems from the middle of next month.
Today FM chief Keith McCormack said the new line-up would “speak to more people than ever before”.
