DJ KC quits ‘dream gig’ for family

Popular Today FM DJ KC has quit his “dream gig” to spend more time with his young family in Cork.

Keith Cunningham, a father of two originally from Co Mayo, will leave the station at the end of March to take the helm as programme controller at Red FM, where he began his career in 2002, and to present its breakfast show.

KC joined Today FM four years ago to present its late-night show and has been commuting to Dublin from his home in Crosshaven, Co Cork, for three years.

He began presenting the station’s competitive lunchtime slot — broadcast between Ray D’Arcy and Tony Fenton’s shows — to about 130,000 listeners 14 months ago.

However, the pressures of the weekly commute — leaving home on a Sunday and getting back late on a Friday — took its toll. And Rachel gave birth to the couple’s second child just eight months ago.

Speaking while on the train from Dublin to Cork last night, KC said: “I’ve been commuting from my home in Cork to Dublin every week for over three years, and being away from my two baby daughters and my fiancée Rachel so much was getting far too difficult.

“Today FM has been the most incredible radio station to work for.

“Being on a daytime schedule with Ian Dempsey, Ray D’Arcy, Tony Fenton, and Matt Copper has been amazing.

“But I’m returning to Cork to take up a new radio presenter and management role, and to be a professional daddy.”

Today FM’s CEO, Peter McPartlin, wished KC well and thanked him for his fantastic contribution to Today FM.

“We will miss his enthusiasm, generosity, talent and infectious personality,” said Mr McPartlin.

The station has not yet announced a replacement.

KC said he was looking forward to the challenge of going back to Red FM in April. “I loved the opportunities afforded me at Today FM but my heart has always remained on Leeside and I’m thrilled to be returning to a radio station that I’ve always been passionate about — let the madness begin.”

Red FM’s CEO, Diarmuid O’Leary, described KC’s return as “very positive” for the station.

“I know KC has the ability to attract and grow an audience and have no doubt that his return will mean exciting times ahead for the listening audience,” said Mr O’Leary.