Ronan Keating has announced his departure from Magic Radio after seven years on air

While in the studio today with his co-host Harriet Scott, Keating opened up about his decision. 

"It's been very difficult for me to come to this conclusion and to make this decision," he confessed. 

"I wanted our listeners, our Magic Breakfast listeners and our Magic Radio listeners, to be the first to know that after seven years and so many incredible shows, I've decided to stand down from Magic Breakfast at the end of July."

Reflecting on his time at the station, Keating expressed his deep affection for the role. "I have loved every single minute, this has not been an easy decision at all. 

“I came on board as you know [Harriet] for a year, maybe two, and I've loved the job so much that I've stayed here for seven. 

“We've had an amazing time and we've been through some incredibly emotional times with people at home. Those two years that the world changed.

“It was an honour to be able to be in people's homes and communicate with them like we did."

Keating also spoke about his plans for the future. 

"Although I won't be waking the nation up anymore with you [Harriet], I look forward to reconnecting with what I did before this – you know, getting back to my music and touring. 

“Even though I've been doing it, trying to do both together has not been easy at times. And getting back to being with my family – you know, doing school runs and those things that I've missed out on. 

“Waking up with my wife in the morning, you know? I know it sounds ridiculous, but it's really important and I've missed that."

Praising his co-star further, Keating said: "You've shown me how to do this and it's been an honour, and I'm not leaving the Magic Radio family, just Magic Breakfast for me – it's time for me to go. 

“A massive thank you to everybody for the love you've shown me, the love you've shown this show for the last seven years. It's been incredible."

Keating, who has been married to Storm Keating for nine years and shares two children with her, also has three adult children from his previous marriage to Yvonne. 

Recently, he raised concern among fans with a tattoo tribute to Storm, depicting a samurai warrior. 

In the caption, he wrote: "For you my warrior today and every day. My Stormy. A challenge ahead but your strength blows my mind. With you every step. Love you baby." 

While Keating did not elaborate on the "challenge ahead," the post sparked concern among his followers.

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