Kate Langbroek reunites with KIIS FM for new-look 3PM Pick Up

Australian Radio Network (ARN) has put to rest any rumours that Kate Langbroek could reunite with Dave Hughes next year, revealing the broadcaster has joined the KIIS Network’s 3PM Pick Up.

She replaces Bec Judd who has decided to “take a break from the media”.

Langbroek will be heard alongside Monty Diamond and Yumi Stynes from January 27 next year.

Langbroek last had a permanent gig on Australian radio as part of the long-running Hughesy & Kate lineup.

The duo hosted the national Drive show on ARN from 2015 to 2017. They then defected to Southern Cross Austereo’s (SCA) Hit Network.

In 2019, Langbroek moved to Italy with her family, and there was much speculation about how, if at all, she would continue to do the Australian Drive show. It was then confirmed she would indeed broadcast all the way from Italy.

She was increasingly absent from the show, however, with Ed Kavalee taking over the billing at the start of this year, transforming Hughesy & Kate into Hughesy & Ed. She continued to feature as a guest on the show.

From next year though, Langbroek is back with ARN, and she said she’s looking forward to her return.

“After our family adventures in Italy, I’m looking forward to returning to magnificent Australia – and ARN – and getting to speak my native language – radio,” she said.

“I can’t wait to join the 3PM Pick Up, I’ve missed eavesdropping on conversations I can actually understand and hanging out with like-minded friends, so naturally I am beyond excited to team up with those two Aperol Spritzes, Monty and Yumi, for some afternoon fun and funniness. Which reminds me, I promise I won’t be one of those infuriating people who returns from a stint abroad with an accent and entirely new vocabulary. See you in 2021. Grazie. And ciao.”

ARN’s chief content officer Duncan Campbell said he’s excited to welcome Langbroek back to the network.

“She is a seasoned broadcaster and will bring a new perspective to the show off the back of her time in Italy. Kate has a way of connecting with listeners that sets her apart and we are looking forward to hearing the chemistry and dynamic between Kate, Monty and Yumi come to life on air,” he added.

And ARN CEO, Ciaran Davis, said: “Securing Kate is an absolute coup for ARN. She is a well-loved Australian personality who understands the importance of working with our clients for positive commercial outcomes. We’re excited to welcome her back to Australia and, more importantly, back to ARN.”

Campbell also thanked Judd for her contribution.

“Bec Judd has been a fantastic contributor to 3PM Pick Up. The engaging conversation, real life anecdotes and fun that she brought to the show will be missed, but we wish her well on her next endeavours.”