Matinee Idle Concludes 21-Year Run with Fond Farewell

After an impressive run of twenty-one years, the beloved radio show Matinee Idle is signing off. Hosts Phil O’Brien and Simon Morris will air their final broadcast at 17:00 on Friday, marking the end of a programme that has sparked both adoration and criticism among its listeners.

Celebrating a Unique Journey

Since its inception in 2004, Matinee Idle cultivated a reputation as an irreverent afternoon show that resonated with a diverse audience. Initially intended to last just three weeks, O’Brien stepped in to fill a gap when an afternoon announcer went on holiday. “They said, ‘look, there’s a couple of weeks if you want them over summer, and you can pretty much do whatever you like’,” he recounted. What began as a temporary arrangement blossomed into a cultural phenomenon.

The duo’s chemistry is evident, akin to a long-married couple who instinctively know each other’s thoughts. They have shared their lives and careers for four decades, and both express gratitude for the exhilarating journey they have experienced together. O’Brien describes their musical enthusiasm as genuine, stating, “We just love music. We are music obsessives… those really annoying people at parties who know who’s playing bass on that track.”

Innovative Format and Listener Engagement

The format of Matinee Idle remained relatively unchanged throughout its broadcast history. Listeners were accustomed to the midday newsreaders’ warning: “don’t say you weren’t warned.” Morris adds, “Basically it was what’s the most obvious thing to do here? What would Radio Bozo play? Let’s not do it.” Themes often guided the musical selection, but spontaneity was a hallmark of the show.

O’Brien has an extensive collection of approximately 150,000 songs at his disposal. He explains that the playlist could change at a moment’s notice, particularly during significant events, such as the death of David Bowie in 2016. “We don’t do a hell of a lot of prep,” he said. “We make it up as we go along.” Morris elaborates, noting that their dynamic often involved friendly competition over song choices.

The themes that peppered the show varied widely, from exploring the aftermath of one-hit wonders to whimsical topics like songs about medieval popes. The hosts encouraged listeners to engage by texting or emailing song suggestions, creating a sense of community around the show.

In 2015, Morris’ son, Alec Morris, joined the team as the “third Idler,” contributing to the show’s dynamic. “It was initially weird working with his dad,” Alec admits, “but I’ve kind of got used to it.” His presence added a new layer to the established format, blending family connection with the show’s unique style.

The show’s reach has extended far beyond New Zealand, with fans from various corners of the globe. Some expatriates in Germany would gather in cafés to listen, while a teacher in Korea shared that the programme sparked lively discussions. Listeners often expressed their affection for the show, with one longtime fan stating, “There has been no other show that has introduced me to such eclectic sounds.”

Celebrity admirers also took notice. Notable figures, including actor and vintner Sam Neill, praised the show for its irreverent charm and ability to uplift spirits during the summer months. Neill, a fan since the show’s early days, even stepped in to host during O’Brien’s absence.

Despite its popularity, Matinee Idle did not escape criticism. Some listeners voiced their displeasure over certain artist choices, while others playfully commented on the chaotic nature of the show. O’Brien acknowledged these complaints, emphasizing that the interactive nature of the programme was central to its appeal. “The whole point of the show is interactive. People text and email. They’re as funny as hell,” he said.

As the show concludes, O’Brien reflects on its legacy. “People have traditionally used Idle when they’re painting the house, or the fence, doing something where they want the radio on in the background. Our theory is that there’s so much awful, awful stuff going on out there that just for two hours, you can forget about it. We don’t talk about politics… we just play music.”

Morris captures the essence of the show with a touching sentiment: “Somebody described Matinee Idle as RNZ’s Christmas present to the nation and that’s what it’s felt like for us too.” As the final broadcast approaches, the hosts cherish the memories they created and the connections forged with their audience over more than two decades.