Former Sky News host Alan Jones has created a new website where fans can sign up to hear directly from the political commentator.
Alan Jones has set up a website where fans can register to get updates about the political commentator’s next move.
The 80-year-old TV and radio veteran abruptly departed Sky News earlier this month, saying the network had declined to renew his contract.
Visitors to alanjones.com.au are invited to enter their name and email address.
“Sign up to find out where Alan goes next,” the text reads.
In his final 8pm broadcast on November 4, Jones had promised to continue voicing his opinions on social media, where he has more than 165,000 followers.
“Remember, you can still find me on my Facebook page,” he said.
“I ain’t going away. Search Alan Jones Australia. Good night, and good health.”
Jones had announced his departure hours earlier in a lengthy statement on Facebook highlighting his ratings wins for the network, which is owned by News Corp Australia, publisher of news.com.au.
“I am only offering all of this because, for most of my professional life, I have never defended myself against criticisms of my performance,” he wrote.
“I merely let the figures speak for themselves, as they did in radio and, as I think you can see from above, they have, in my brief stint on television. May I say, I have enjoyed my experience thoroughly.”
He added, “I have had nothing but support from people in the backroom of Sky News who rarely get a mention – and, apart from my contribution towards raising the viewer numbers, I hope I have also contributed to the morale of the organisation.”
Jones said Sky News management had offered him a once-a-week appearance on new streaming service Flash, which he declined.
His contract had been due to end on November 30, but the decision was made at the October 29 meeting that he wouldn’t see out his final weeks.
“Regrettably Alan has decided not to accept a new role that was offered to him for next year,” Sky News Australia chief executive Paul Whittaker said in a statement.
“We respect his decision and know he will be missed by many. Alan has contributed greatly to Sky News Australia over the years, advocating without fear or favour on the issues important to many Australians.
“His compelling commentary and views on the national debate have seen him become one of the country’s most successful and influential broadcasters for close to four decades.
“I’d like to thank Alan for his commendable dedication and service to Sky News. We wish him well.”
Jones joined Sky News Australia in 2013 as the co-host of the discussion program Richo + Jones, moving on to host Jones & Co in 2016 before finally helming The Alan Jones Program since July last year.
Prior to that, he hosted his radio show on 2GB for two decades, before retiring in May last year.
He dominated the airwaves in the early timeslot for many years, before handing the baton over to Ben Fordham.
Jones’ 8pm Sky News timeslot has since been filled by Inside the News with Rita Panahi.
— with Lexie Cartwright
Originally published as Alan Jones creates website to stay in touch with fans after Sky News exit
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