Ben Fordham’s 2GB breakfast radio show WINS the ratings war

Ben Fordham took over the reins as 2GB host from industry heavyweight Alan Jones back in June.

And the 44-year-old is proving to be the perfect person for the top spot by winning the official GFK radio survey.

His breakfast show has taken out top spot in the AM timeslot with a massive 18.1 per cent share, placing him ahead of his rivals including ABC’s Sydney and The Kyle and Jackie O show.

ABC Breakfast radio hosted by Wendy Harmer and Robbie Buck, received 12.14 per cent share to place second in the Sydney market.

Smooth FM’s breakfast duo Bogart Torelli and Glenn Daniel followed in third with 9.4 per cent.

While KIIS FM’s The Kyle and Jackie O show received just 7.9 per cent share.

Ben was announced as 2GB’s breakfast radio host in May last year after Alan Jones retired from radio after 35 years on the airwaves.

He previously said he didn’t initially want the 2GB breakfast job, and it was actually his wife Jodie Speers who ultimately made the decision for him.

Speaking to Stellar Magazine, the popular media personality said he turned down the role multiple times because he wasn’t sure whether it would be the ‘best for his family’.

‘I totally appreciate that the job itself is a spectacular one. But make no mistake, it’s not one I was chasing for family reasons. I just wasn’t,’ he said.

‘I was concerned about the impact it would have on the family setup. And I suppose I just thought it would be easier not to. I think I said no about six times.’

Fordham was ultimately swayed by the realisation that his new schedule would allow him to pick up his son, Freddy, five, from school, and the endorsement of Jodie.

He explained: ‘I lean on her heavily. And I gave her a deadline and said, “Listen, if you change your mind and say no, I will never hold it against you”.’