After more than 25 years anchoring mornings on Audacy's 98.5 KLUC in Las Vegas, popular radio host Chet Buchanan has departed the station, marking the end of one of the longest-running contemporary hit radio (CHR) morning show tenures in the market's recent history.
The station announced the news in a social media post on Friday morning, thanking Buchanan for his dedication and contributions. "Your voice, leadership, and commitment to our listeners have helped define KLUC and its role in the Las Vegas community for nearly three decades and for that we greatly appreciate you," the post read.
In comments to the Review-Journal, he described the decision simply as "It's just time," without pointing to a single triggering event.
His long run included evolving formats—from "The Morning Zoo" to his namesake show—and collaborations with co-hosts like the recent pairing with Vegas entertainer Mikalah Gordon.
Over the years, Buchanan built a strong local following through light-hearted on-air banter, listener interaction, celebrity gossip segments, and community involvement. He is particularly recognized for his annual toy drive, where he famously spends days on a scaffold outside NV Energy offices collecting donations for children during the holiday season—a tradition that has become a staple of his brand and Las Vegas holiday traditions.
The departure comes after previous lineup changes on the show, including the exit of longtime co-host Kayla Walker in early 2025. As of Friday, KLUC had not named a replacement or outlined next steps for the 6 a.m. weekday slot.
Buchanan's exit closes a significant chapter in Las Vegas radio, where his consistent presence helped make KLUC a top-rated CHR station for much of his tenure.