Nine Radio today announced the signing of rising media star and Australian BookTok sensation, Luke Bateman, to an exclusive audio deal.

The former NRL star and fan-favourite from The Bachelors Australia has officially joined the Nine Podcast stable and is currently developing a new audio project due for release later this year.

Bateman has become one of the country’s most compelling new media personalities, seamlessly transitioning from the rugby league field to amassing an enormous and highly engaged following on TikTok (@lukesreads) for his authentic passion for literature.

The timber-cutter, business owner, and soon-to-be author – who also holds a two-book deal with publisher Simon & Schuster – brings powerful momentum to Nine’s award-winning podcast slate. This acquisition is a significant move, securing a unique talent with an instantly recognisable profile and a substantial, built-in audience.

Luke Bateman commented on the partnership: “I am ecstatic to announce I am working with Nine. Every human being is a storytelling machine and I’m looking forward to sharing these with you all. I’m looking forward to finally revealing this project to the world.”

Nine’s Head of Podcasts, Rachel Fountain said: “We’re over the moon to be working with Luke. His narrative – from the rugby league field to literary influencer – is one of the most compelling stories in media today, and our team loves working with him. He’s so passionate and invested in everything he touches, he’s not afraid to be vulnerable, and he brings authenticity and real talent for storytelling and connecting with audiences. This, combined with the power of Nine, makes him a truly unmissable addition to our stable.”

Further details on Nine’s podcast project with Bateman will be released soon.