ORF

Breaking News from the Austrian Airwaves: Robert Kratky’s Departure from Ö3

The ORF is losing one of its most recognizable voices. As announced on Friday, Ö3-Wecker host Robert Kratky is leaving his home station. This is happening sooner than planned, as the 52-year-old had announced last year that he would let his contract expire at the end of 2026. However, health reasons have now prompted him to end his collaboration with the public broadcaster with immediate effect.

Health Comes First: The Unexpected Exit

In a heartfelt Instagram post, Kratky wrote, “With a heavy heart but full of gratitude, I have decided to pass the microphone of the Ö3-Wecker definitively to my excellent colleagues. On medical advice, earlier than planned, I am therefore ending my work for Hitradio Ö3 and the ORF in order to give my mental and physical health the priority that previously, for almost four decades, was exclusively devoted to my work.” He also thanked the Ö3 listeners, stating that being a small part of so many people’s everyday lives for generations was “the luck of my life and the greatest honor I could imagine.”

Tributes and Respect: Acknowledgment from ORF Leadership

ORF Director-General Roland Weißmann expressed his recognition, showing “great respect” for Kratky’s withdrawal. He said that Kratky had “shaped not only Ö3, but the Austrian radio landscape during the last decades as the host of the Ö3-Wecker like no other,” despite “very challenging working conditions.” Radio Director Ingrid Thurnher emphasized that Kratky’s special strength was “always meeting the audience at eye level.” She also reminded everyone, “A life in the public eye brings highs, but also demands a lot from a person.” Ö3 station head Michael Pauser also acknowledged Kratky’s contribution, saying that he had decisively shaped the country’s largest morning show and laid the foundation for future successes. “We respect his decision and wish him all the best for the coming months to regain strength,” said Pauser.

The high value of Kratky to the ORF was also evident in financial terms. The moderator was the undisputed top earner in the company and, according to the ORF transparency report, earned a proud annual salary of 472,702 euros in 2024. Following his departure, security officer Pius Strobl now tops the list with 451,710 euros, followed by Director-General Roland Weißmann with 427,500 euros.

The Race to Replace Kratky: Who Will Take the Morning Mic?

Who will succeed Robert Kratky? Two potential successors have already been identified, according to Michael Pauser in an interview with the Kurier. Philipp Hansa and Gabi Hiller are the frontrunners. Hansa was already a main presenter every fourth week before Kratky’s departure, filling in for Kratky on holidays. The 35-year-old from Graz is well-known and liked by most listeners. The same applies to Hiller, who has been co-hosting the Ö3-Wecker since the end of 2022 and is also known to the wider audience for her years of moderation of the “Ö3-Weihnachtswunder.”

Pauser suggests that a second moderation duo is also planned. Media reports suggest Tina Ritschl is high on the list. The 35-year-old from Vienna, with roots in Vorarlberg and Lower Austria, has been with Ö3 since 2012 and co-hosts the community show “Frag das ganze Land” with Philipp Bergsmann. Bergsmann, who joined Ö3 in 2018, is also considered a potential candidate.

Could Anna Kratki Be In the Running?

Finally, Anna Kratki is also being considered as a potential successor. She shares not only (almost) her name with Robert Kratky, but also her energetic morning mood, with which she sent the listeners of Radio Energy into their day until a few days ago. The basis for these rumors may be a recent post she wrote announcing her surprising departure from her previous job:

The final decision regarding who will join Hansa and Hiller in taking over for Robert Kratky is expected in the coming days. Kratky himself expressed his wish for a “very cool moderator” – a woman – last year.

Pro Tip

Keep an eye on the radio station’s social media channels and the news outlets for any updates on this story. This can provide insight into the potential changes and new talent coming to Ö3.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why is Robert Kratky leaving?
A: He is stepping down due to health reasons, as advised by his doctor.

Q: Who are the frontrunners to replace him?
A: The most likely candidates are Philipp Hansa and Gabi Hiller.

Q: What is the Ö3-Wecker?
A: It’s a popular morning radio show on the Austrian radio station Ö3.

Q: How long was Robert Kratky with Ö3?
A: Robert Kratky has been with Ö3 for nearly four decades.