‘Why should RTÉ have their foot on people’s necks?’: the great 2FM exodus and why young stars are leaving Montrose

As Jennifer Zamparelli joins the 2 Johnnies and Doireann Garrihy in quitting the radio station, we find out why the national broadcaster no longer represents the summit for young talent

Taste of success: The 2 Johnnies’ RTÉ show has 150,000 listeners. Photo: Hannah Devaney

Kim Bielenberg and Kirsty Blake Knox

There was surprise but little shock among fellow broadcasters when RTÉ confirmed that the 2 Johnnies were giving up their drivetime 2FM show at the end of the month.

The Tipperary comedy duo — known as Johnny B and Johnny Smacks — had become the most popular presenters on the station, with over 150,000 listeners a day.