Shebahn Aherne: The Voice of Modern Sports Broadcasting

In the crowded landscape of British sports broadcasting, few figures have risen as quickly and memorably as Shebahn Aherne. Known for her sharp insights, energetic delivery, and charismatic presence both on radio and at live events, she has become one of the most recognised voices on talkSPORT while maintaining a solid portfolio of work with ITV, DAZN, and other media outlets. Beyond the microphone, her personal journey—balancing family, broadcasting, and live event hosting—offers a story of ambition and resilience.
This article explores every aspect of Shebahn’s professional and personal life, from her career beginnings to her position as a national broadcaster, and from her Scottish roots to her family connections.
Early Life and Education
Growing up in Scotland
Shebahn Aherne was born on 3 July 1990 and raised in Drumchapel, Glasgow. From a young age she displayed a passion for media and performance, a passion that would lead her into student radio and later into mainstream broadcasting.
Academic Path
She attended St Andrews High School in Clydebank, where she was active in pupil council activities. Her higher education took place at Glasgow Metropolitan College, where she pursued an HNC in Radio and Television between 2007 and 2009. During this period, she sharpened her skills in student radio, gaining the confidence and technical ability needed for professional broadcasting.
Early Career Steps
Bauer Media and Radio Beginnings
Shebahn’s career started with Bauer Media Group, where she worked in production from 2006 and later became a presenter between 2011 and 2013. These formative years gave her experience across different aspects of radio, from behind-the-scenes research to on-air presenting.
Entry into ITV
In 2014 she began working with ITV in London, starting as a Green Room Host and Input Researcher. By August 2015 she had advanced to the position of Entertainment Producer for Good Morning Britain. For nearly eight years she combined entertainment production with her passion for sports broadcasting, offering a rare versatility across genres.
Rise to Sports Broadcasting
Joining talkSPORT
Her move to talkSPORT marked a turning point. Initially joining in 2020, she quickly became a recognisable voice. By November 2021 she was regularly presenting shows and engaging with audiences on some of the network’s most popular slots.
Weekend Sports Breakfast
One of her most notable appointments has been taking over as a presenter on the Weekend Sports Breakfast. This show, a staple for football fans, allowed Shebahn to showcase her ability to combine serious sports analysis with lively banter, striking a balance that resonates with a broad audience.
Work with DAZN
In parallel, she joined DAZN in November 2022 as a freelance reporter and host. She fronted the UEFA Women’s Champions League preview shows, further cementing her reputation as a leading female broadcaster in football coverage.
Personal Life
Marriage and Family
Shebahn Aherne is married to Jamie Aherne. The couple tied the knot in September 2015 and now live in Glasgow, where they raise their family. They are proud parents of twins, a detail that highlights how Shebahn has balanced her demanding media career with her personal commitments.
Husband and Partner
Jamie Aherne is involved in sports management, and together the couple share a love for the sporting world. Their partnership is often spoken of as a supportive one, with Jamie playing a vital role in her professional journey.
Shebahn Aherne’s Sister
An intriguing aspect of Shebahn’s story is her family connection to football. She is the twin sister of Ruesha Littlejohn, a professional footballer who has represented the Republic of Ireland at international level. The twin dynamic has often been mentioned in media circles, with both women excelling in their respective fields—Ruesha on the pitch, Shebahn on the airwaves.
Career Highlights and Recognition
Alan Brazil and On-Air Debates
Shebahn’s confidence and professionalism were showcased during her on-air exchanges with Alan Brazil, one of talkSPORT’s veteran hosts. In early 2025, she made headlines for standing firm in a debate over comments on women’s football. The exchange captured her ability to engage in lively, sometimes controversial, discussions while maintaining poise and clarity.
Columnist and Event Host
Beyond radio, Shebahn has worked as a columnist, club DJ, and events host. Her versatility keeps her at the centre of both the entertainment and sports industries, reflecting her broad skill set and charisma.
Public Image and Media Presence
Wikipedia Status
Although Shebahn Aherne does not currently have her own standalone Wikipedia page, her profile continues to grow. References to her appear in connection with her twin sister Ruesha Littlejohn, but her expanding portfolio suggests a dedicated page is likely in the near future.
Social Media
Shebahn maintains an active presence on social media platforms, including X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram, where she interacts with a large audience. Her follower base has grown steadily, thanks to her authenticity, humour, and insights into the broadcasting world.
Shebahn Aherne’s Nationality and Identity
Proudly Scottish, Shebahn continues to represent her roots even as her career spans national and international platforms. Whether covering Premier League matches, European tournaments, or broader sporting events, she brings a Glasgow-born perspective that resonates with listeners across the UK.
Future Prospects
With her combination of talent, experience, and relatability, Shebahn Aherne’s career trajectory is set to keep rising. Her work on talkSPORT and DAZN ensures she will remain a key voice in football broadcasting. At the same time, her background in entertainment production means she has the capacity to branch further into television and live event hosting.
Conclusion
Shebahn Aherne embodies the qualities of a modern sports broadcaster: intelligent, approachable, and unafraid to bring her personality into the conversation. From her early days in Glasgow student radio to becoming a central figure on talkSPORT’s Weekend Sports Breakfast, her journey is an inspiring example of how talent and hard work combine to create success.
Her partnership with husband Jamie Aherne, her twin bond with Ruesha Littlejohn, and her Scottish heritage all add richness to her story. Whether sparring with Alan Brazil, hosting Champions League previews, or producing segments at ITV, Shebahn continues to leave her mark on British sports media.
At 35 years old, she is not only a broadcaster of today but a voice set to define the next era of sports coverage in the UK.