2GB’s Alan Jones hospitalised

Alan Jones has been taken to hospital, with 2GB Lunch host Chris Smith filling in on the veteran broadcaster’s Breakfast show.

Smith explained to listeners this morning that Jones has been suffering back pain, with doctors not yet been able to pinpoint the precise cause.

“Unfortunately, Alan Jones AO is unwell at the moment and receiving care in a hospital,” said Macquarie Media CEO Alan Lang in a statement.

“We hope that Alan is as comfortable as possible and that he has a swift recovery.”

Lang was not able to give a time-frame on Jones’ return to work.

“At this stage, we do not know how long that Alan will be unable to broadcast his program. Depending on the required duration of his leave, we will make decisions on who can fill in for him.”

In today’s GfK radio ratings, Jones’ Breakfast program fell to 17.5% (-1.5) but remains well in front of his competitors.

News emerged yesterday that Jones had been disciplined by the Macquarie Media board following a series of incidents throughout the year.