
Rich Williams swaps Virgin for Absolute Radio network
Rich Williams, who announced his departure from Virgin Radio last week after seven years, is joining Bauer to host various shifts at Absolute Radio.
He’s joining the Dave Berry Breakfast Show as its new sports newsreader, and will also host the mid-morning show on Absolute Radio 00s.
Current Noughties mid-morning host Ben Coley will move to Absolute Radio 10s as the station expands its decade offering.
Ben will be joined by another new recruit to the Absolute Radio family – Olivia Jones. She’ll start a new afternoon show from Tuesday 5th May (1-4pm).
Rich Williams said: “I’m thrilled to be joining Dave on the Breakfast Show. I’ve been a fan for a long time, so to now be part of it is ace.”
Paul Sylvester, Content Director for Absolute Radio and Magic Radio said: “2026 is going to be another massive year for sport and we’re delighted that Rich will be joining us to deliver the sports bulletins as well as contributing to the Breakfast Show. He’s a great team player and his warmth and charm made him a perfect choice to join the Breakfast show alongside Dave Berry, Matt Dyson and Andrea Fox.”
Paul Sylvester added: “We’re so excited to have Olivia join the Absolute Radio family. She’s a smart, sharp, funny broadcaster who loves the music we play and she’s going to be a brilliant addition to the team.”
I’m leaving Virgin Radio! 📻
After 7 years, it’s time to move on.
Bloody loved being part of Virgin… an amazing set of stations with superb people. The radio journey DOES continue somewhere new and big… and I’m VERY excited to tell you all about that in the next few days! ☺️ pic.twitter.com/GoIHbaD004— Rich Williams (@itsrichwilliams) April 8, 2026

