Top radio host makes shocking career move and what it means for fans
- Replies 0
After more than two decades on the airwaves, one of Australia’s most recognisable radio voices has announced they are stepping away from a long-running program on the Nova Network.
For many, the nightly show has been a trusted companion, offering celebrity interviews, music news, and pop culture updates for over a decade.
As the host prepares to hang up the headphones, it marks the end of an era for the station and its loyal listeners.
Kent 'Smallzy' Small’s story is a classic Aussie tale of hard work and passion. Starting out in community radio at just 16 in western Sydney, he joined Nova in 2003 and quickly became a staple of the network.
By 2012, he was hosting his own national weeknight show, Smallzy’s Surgery, which soon shot to the top of the ratings.
In fact, since its debut, the show has delivered a staggering 92 number-one ratings results—a feat few in the industry can claim.
But it wasn’t just the numbers that made Smallzy’s Surgery special. The show became known for its exclusive celebrity interviews, live music events like Nova’s Red Room, and globe-trotting coverage of the world’s biggest entertainment happenings.
Smallzy’s guest list reads like a who’s who of the music world from Ed Sheeran to Billie Eilish and Katy Perry. His ability to connect with stars and listeners alike made every night feel like a backstage pass to the hottest events.
In an emotional statement shared on Instagram, Smallzy reflected on his incredible journey: ‘What a ride. When I first started the show, I never would have imagined getting to do the things I have done, from the celebrity interviews, to Nova’s Red Room and travelling the globe covering the biggest events. They’ve all made the show something very, very special.’
He went on to thank everyone who’s been part of the show, saying, ‘I leave with fond memories, lifelong friendships, but most importantly, I’m grateful to every single person who has ever chosen to spend their night with me.’
The announcement has sent shockwaves through the radio community, with fellow presenters and fans alike flooding his social media with messages of support and admiration.
Nova’s Tim Blackwell called him ‘a master’ and praised his ‘superb, untouched run’, while Ricki-Lee Coulter thanked him for his unwavering support of Australian music artists.
Smallzy’s impact on the industry can’t be overstated. Nova Entertainment itself credited him with ‘effectively inventing the format in this country’, blending music, celebrity gossip, and pop culture in a way that resonated with listeners night after night.
His relationships with the world’s biggest stars gave Nova unparalleled access, and his easygoing style made even the most famous guests feel right at home.
To mark his 20th anniversary in radio last year, a parade of A-list celebrities sent in video tributes.
Ed Sheeran called his two-decade run ‘an incredible achievement’, while Billie Eilish and Katy Perry both expressed their gratitude for his support and friendship over the years.
With Smallzy’s final show set for this Friday, there’s a big question mark over what will fill the void.
Rumours are swirling that ex-KIIS FM star Mitch Churi might be in talks to join the network, but nothing has been confirmed yet.
One thing’s for sure: whoever steps into the slot will have some very big shoes to fill.
As for Smallzy, he hasn’t revealed his next move just yet. Given his talent, experience, and connections, we wouldn’t be surprised to see him pop up in another high-profile role—whether that’s in radio, TV, or perhaps something entirely new.
After all, as his colleagues have said, this may be the end of an era, but it’s also the beginning of something exciting.
For many of us, radio is more than just background noise—it’s a companion, a source of comfort, and a link to the wider world.
Smallzy’s Surgery has been all that and more for countless Australians, especially those of us who remember the days before streaming and podcasts changed the way we listen.
So, as we say goodbye to Smallzy’s nightly presence, it’s a good time to reflect on the power of radio and the personalities who make it special.
Whether you tuned in every night or just caught the occasional interview, there’s no denying the impact Smallzy has had on the Australian media landscape.
Did you listen to Smallzy’s Surgery? Do you have a favourite memory or interview from the show? And what do you think Nova should do next? Share your thoughts and tributes in the comments below—let’s give Smallzy the send-off he deserves!
Read more: ‘I went to some dark places’: This ousted Today presenter opens up about his comeback
For many, the nightly show has been a trusted companion, offering celebrity interviews, music news, and pop culture updates for over a decade.
As the host prepares to hang up the headphones, it marks the end of an era for the station and its loyal listeners.
Kent 'Smallzy' Small’s story is a classic Aussie tale of hard work and passion. Starting out in community radio at just 16 in western Sydney, he joined Nova in 2003 and quickly became a staple of the network.
By 2012, he was hosting his own national weeknight show, Smallzy’s Surgery, which soon shot to the top of the ratings.
Radio’s top national weeknight show is ending, and its host is leaving after 23 years with the network. Credit: Facebook
In fact, since its debut, the show has delivered a staggering 92 number-one ratings results—a feat few in the industry can claim.
But it wasn’t just the numbers that made Smallzy’s Surgery special. The show became known for its exclusive celebrity interviews, live music events like Nova’s Red Room, and globe-trotting coverage of the world’s biggest entertainment happenings.
Smallzy’s guest list reads like a who’s who of the music world from Ed Sheeran to Billie Eilish and Katy Perry. His ability to connect with stars and listeners alike made every night feel like a backstage pass to the hottest events.
In an emotional statement shared on Instagram, Smallzy reflected on his incredible journey: ‘What a ride. When I first started the show, I never would have imagined getting to do the things I have done, from the celebrity interviews, to Nova’s Red Room and travelling the globe covering the biggest events. They’ve all made the show something very, very special.’
He went on to thank everyone who’s been part of the show, saying, ‘I leave with fond memories, lifelong friendships, but most importantly, I’m grateful to every single person who has ever chosen to spend their night with me.’
The announcement has sent shockwaves through the radio community, with fellow presenters and fans alike flooding his social media with messages of support and admiration.
Nova’s Tim Blackwell called him ‘a master’ and praised his ‘superb, untouched run’, while Ricki-Lee Coulter thanked him for his unwavering support of Australian music artists.
Smallzy’s impact on the industry can’t be overstated. Nova Entertainment itself credited him with ‘effectively inventing the format in this country’, blending music, celebrity gossip, and pop culture in a way that resonated with listeners night after night.
His relationships with the world’s biggest stars gave Nova unparalleled access, and his easygoing style made even the most famous guests feel right at home.
To mark his 20th anniversary in radio last year, a parade of A-list celebrities sent in video tributes.
Ed Sheeran called his two-decade run ‘an incredible achievement’, while Billie Eilish and Katy Perry both expressed their gratitude for his support and friendship over the years.
With Smallzy’s final show set for this Friday, there’s a big question mark over what will fill the void.
Rumours are swirling that ex-KIIS FM star Mitch Churi might be in talks to join the network, but nothing has been confirmed yet.
One thing’s for sure: whoever steps into the slot will have some very big shoes to fill.
As for Smallzy, he hasn’t revealed his next move just yet. Given his talent, experience, and connections, we wouldn’t be surprised to see him pop up in another high-profile role—whether that’s in radio, TV, or perhaps something entirely new.
After all, as his colleagues have said, this may be the end of an era, but it’s also the beginning of something exciting.
For many of us, radio is more than just background noise—it’s a companion, a source of comfort, and a link to the wider world.
Smallzy’s Surgery has been all that and more for countless Australians, especially those of us who remember the days before streaming and podcasts changed the way we listen.
So, as we say goodbye to Smallzy’s nightly presence, it’s a good time to reflect on the power of radio and the personalities who make it special.
Whether you tuned in every night or just caught the occasional interview, there’s no denying the impact Smallzy has had on the Australian media landscape.
Read more: ‘I went to some dark places’: This ousted Today presenter opens up about his comeback
