Beta Da Silva latest presenter to take over 2FM Drivetime slot from Lottie Ryan, David O’Reilly and the 2 Johnnies

Da Silva, who used to present The New Music Show on 2FM, will be taking over the 3-6pm slot previously held by David O’Reilly and Lottie Ryan after the departure of the 2 Johnnies was announced last May.

Lottie Ryan recently denied claims that she was “axed” from Drivetime in an Instagram post published last week.

“When it was announced that I would be taking over Drive, it was always agreed between me and my bosses that this would only be for a five-week stint.

“I’m not going anywhere and I’m very much part of 2FM. I’ve thoroughly enjoyed my time with the Drive team and it’s been an absolute joy working with such amazing people.”

Beta began his career in 2017 on RTÉ Pulse and previously presented Weekend Breakfast on the station.

The announcement of his appointment comes after a series of presenter departures at the station.

Doireann Garrihy, Donncha O’Callaghan, Jennifer Zamparelli, Johnny Smacks and Johnny B, known as the 2 Johnnies, all announced their departure from RTÉ’s 2FM in recent weeks.

In a statement on his Instagram account, Beta Da Silva wrote: “A huge honour and privilege to be able to have an opportunity like this in this phase of my career and I’m very thankful to those who have trusted me enough to present a massive and important show like this”.

"So many highlights in the last few years that I can’t forget; Overnight shows, Weekend Breakfast, presenting from EP live, presenting Choice Music Prize live, covering for OG Tracy’s show & most memorably, being able to contribute & shine a light on Irish music in the country & beyond. Very surreal that I get to add another to the list. All these things have led me to where I’m at today & I’m very grateful,” he said.

He dedicated his recent appointment to “all the music lovers” and assured that the music would not stop even though he is “stepping away from The New Music Show for a little bit”.

Artists and fellow broadcasters such as Aby Coulibaly, Tracy Clifford, Laura Fox, Fionnula Moran, Georgia Gaffney have extended their congratulations.

2FM Drive with Beta Silva will be on air Monday through to Friday from 3-6pm.