Audacy Top 40 station 98.5 KRZ (WKRZ) in Wilkes-Barre/Scranton has renewed the contract of afternoon drive host “Jumpin’ Jeff” Walker, securing the legendary personality for continued dominance in one of radio’s most competitive markets.
Today's announcement coincides with dual 45th anniversaries: KRZ’s launch as a Top 40 powerhouse in 1980 (First song: New Kid In Town by The Eagles) and Walker’s unbroken tenure in the same afternoon slot—making him one of the longest-running single-market, single-station personalities in U.S. radio history.
Walker’s show has consistently delivered top-rated afternoon performance, anchoring KRZ as a perennial ratings leader in the Scranton-Wilkes-Barre market (Nielsen DMA #71). His multi-decade run has spanned format evolutions, digital shifts, and generational listener turnover while maintaining cultural relevance and audience loyalty.
SVP/Market Manager Ryan Flynn praised the renewal: “We’re thrilled to ensure Jeff remains the cornerstone of our afternoon drive. Forty-five years of ratings dominance with the same station is an achievement that speaks for itself.”
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Walker’s voice has become synonymous with Northeastern Pennsylvania youth culture, from Gen X mallrats to Gen Z streamers discovering his archives online.
His 45-year streak includes: Surviving multiple ownership changes (from Wilkes-Swartz to Entercom, now Audacy).
Walker’s sustained success underscores the power of authentic local connection in an increasingly nationalized media landscape. KRZ continues to leverage Walker’s brand in digital content, social media, and community events, ensuring his influence extends beyond the traditional broadcast day.