Rian van Heerden kept Jacaranda listeners on their toes in 2017
Rian van Heerden has a knack for making a story out of anything. But a few times in 2017, he was the story.
In March this year, Rian made national headlines when a rumour about his involvement in a shooting surfaced. The source of the rumour is unknown.
Rian had reportedly been shot and killed, and concerned listeners were phoning the station for confirmation of the news.
Rian put the rumours to rest in this note:
From "surviving" a shooting, to posing as a drag queen along with two of the team members from The Complimentary Breakfast. The first half of 2017 was dramatic for Rian.
When he, Marcelle Gordon and Dianne Broodryk heard that the famous musical Priscilla, Queen of the Desert was staging at Montecasino, they had to celebrate the occasion.
In a very fitting tribute to the spirit of Priscilla, Rian, Marcelle and Dianne transformed into drag queens for a day.
Dianne "Di-Lecia" Broodryk:
Marcelle "The Duchess" Gordon:
And of course, Rian "I-Lean-Dover" van Heerden:
The Complimentary Breakfast team were always up to work together and bring the fun. This is why it was especially sad when Rian announced that he would no longer be presenting the show.
Rian received an overwhelming response from long-time listeners and team members who did not want to see him go. This was the heartfelt moment that he bid everyone farewell:
In an exciting turn of events, it was announced that Rian would be the new host of Jacaranda FM's drive show from 31 July 2017.
In the nearly five months that he has been in the drive time slot, Rian has brought his old audience along on a journey of engaging topics, hearty debates and lots of laughter.