She debuted her revamped 2DayFM breakfast program, the Em, Grant and Ed Show, last week after failing to find an audience with former co-host Harley Breen.
And Em Rusciano has denied any suggestion that Harley was pushed out of the role, telling The Sun-Herald he resigned in order to spend more time with his family and do more stand-up comedy.
She also spoke candidly about the pressure to improve 2DayFM’s dismal 6am-9am ratings, admitting: ‘I cried on the last day of work… I was a broken woman.’
‘I was a broken woman’: Em Rusciano ‘cried on the last day of work in 2017’ after a year of poor ratings at 2Day FM… as she denies any suggestion Harley Breen was pushed out of the role
Harley announced his resignation in November, and it was later revealed that 2018’s show would feature Em alongside Grant Denyer and Ed Kavalee.
The Melbourne-based comedian said at the time: ‘It’s by no means an easy decision, but it’s the right one.’
He added: ‘I’m grateful for the opportunity, and grateful for you, Em. In my absence, I hope the show becomes the raging success it deserves to be.’
Sudden departure: Harley announced his resignation in November, and it was later revealed that 2018’s show would feature Em alongside Grant Denyer and Ed Kavalee
Speaking about last year’s difficulties, Em explained: ‘I was exhausted. I was getting caught up in the minutiae of the show, not being able to be funny and a bit looser.’
However, the mother-of-two confirmed she is looking forward to sharing equal responsibility with her new colleagues.
‘This is great. We’re a triple-hand show now, and it’s equal contribution,’ she added.
New attempt: The Em, Grant and Ed Show is the fifth program to feature on the Hit Network’s beleaguered breakfast slot since Kyle and Jackie O departed in 2013
The Em, Grant and Ed Show is the fifth program to feature on the Hit Network’s beleaguered breakfast slot since Kyle and Jackie O departed in 2013.
Kyle and Jackie have remained top of the Sydney ratings since their debut on KIIS.
Another notable failure for 2Day was the ill-fated Rove and Sam show, starring TV personality Rove McManus and former Bachelorette Sam Frost.
Success: Kyle and Jackie have remained top of the Sydney ratings since their debut on KIIS