Alex Cullen Exits Radio After Just 11 Months

 became emotional live on-air on Monday morning when he confirmed his departure from Gold 104.3's The Christian O'Connell Show.

The sports presenter, 45, . 

'It's a difficult morning, but also a joyful one, one filled with gratitude. I just want to say this off the bat, I thoroughly enjoyed my time on this wonderful show,' Alex began.

Alex – effective immediately – so he could spend more time with his wife Bonnie and their three children.

'The last year, it has been so much fun juggling these three kids and two jobs. It has been chaotic, but a whole lot of fun. Working with Christian and you guys has been a privilege,' he said.

'It has been wonderful... but the grind of holding down two jobs, at both ends of the day, was proving too much. Something had to give,' he said.

The veteran presenter moved to Channel Seven

'I had some really serious conversations with my wife. I decided the time is right to put that early morning alarm clock away for awhile and concentrate my efforts on my TV roles and my very energetic young family,' he added.

'I told the kids yesterday, "Daddy is not going to be doing breakfast radio anymore." They were so pleased. Thank you to Christian for the laughs, the joy, and to our wonderful audience. It was an honour.' 

Alex's replacement was revealed last month, when it was reported that veteran Kyle and Jackie O Show presenter 'Intern' Pete Deppeler

The move comes after more than 12 years on The Kyle and Jackie O Show.

In his new role, Pete will serve as both a roving reporter and senior producer on The Christian O'Connell Show – now Australia's first national commercial breakfast radio program, broadcasting across Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth and Adelaide.

Pete says the opportunity emerged organically during what has been a turbulent period at KIIS FM.

'I've known Christian for years,' Pete told news.com.au.