HOT 97 has launched a new era in its morning programming with Bronx-born comedian and media personality The Kid Mero (Joel Martinez) as host of HOT 97 Mornings with Mero, premiering Tuesday, January 13, 2026, and airing weekdays from 6 a.m. to 10 a.m. ET.
The announcement, made Monday by MediaCo-owned HOT 97 (WQHT-FM)—New York’s #1 multicultural station regardless of language—positions Mero in the iconic morning drive-time slot. He succeeds Ebro in the Morning, the long-running show hosted by Ebro Darden alongside Peter Rosenberg and Laura Stylez, which ended in December 2025 after nearly 13 years.
Mero, a New York Times best-selling author, Writers Guild Award winner, and Variety “Comic to Watch,” brings his signature sharp wit, unfiltered humor, and deep cultural roots to the airwaves. Known for co-hosting the acclaimed Desus & Mero series on Viceland and Showtime (until its 2022 end), he currently hosts the podcast Victory Light with The Kid Mero and co-hosts 7PM in Brooklyn with NBA Hall-of-Famer Carmelo Anthony."HOT 97 is the station—it's been the voice of NYC hip-hop and culture for decades," Mero said in the announcement.
"I grew up listening to Hot 97, so to get the morning slot here isn’t just a job—it’s a responsibility to continue that legacy while bringing it into this next era of media. We’re gonna laugh, we’re gonna get into it, but it’s always gonna be real, and a real good time!"The show promises Mero’s commentary on culture, sports, music, and current events, plus interviews with major artists, athletes, and influencers—all delivered in his authentic, energetic style that resonates with New York audiences.
Our new host has arrived.⁰ Join Mero for his first day on air Tuesday | 6AM–10AM 🎙️⁰ HOT 97 Mornings with Mero, weekdays 6AM–10AM@THEKIDMERO pic.twitter.com/oYdV199O8p
— HOT 97 (@HOT97) January 12, 2026
MediaCo executives hailed the move as fitting for the station’s evolution.
“This is a new era for HOT 97, one that reflects both where the culture is and where it’s going,” said CEO Albert Rodriguez. “As the most listened-to station in hip-hop, we’re proud to announce The Kid Mero, Bronx-born comedian and cultural voice who’s captured a generation with his sharp wit and authenticity, as our new morning show host.”
EVP of Content & Growth Kudjo Sogadzi added: “HOT 97 has always been the city’s pulse, and Mero embodies that energy. He’s authentic, fearless, and deeply rooted in the community. His mornings will set the tone for listeners across New York.”
The launch follows a strong 2025 for MediaCo, with HOT 97 expanding its influence across radio, Hot TV, and digital platforms. Listeners can tune in starting Tuesday on 97.1 FM in New York, the HOT 97 app, and streaming services.