Philly Radio: After 22 Years, Kathy Romano Forced Out At WMMR

Kathy Romano is departing 93.3 WMMR’s top-rated Preston & Steve morning show after Beasley Media Group, the station’s parent company, did not renew her contract, a Beasley spokesperson confirmed.

Romano, a 22-year veteran of the show, announced her exit live on air Thursday after 9 a.m. alongside emotional co-hosts Preston Elliot and Steve Morrison. Her final day is Friday. She later shared a heartfelt Instagram post with fans.

“This wasn’t my decision,” Romano said. “We’re heartbroken.”

She expressed gratitude to her colleagues and listeners, adding, “This isn’t goodbye—just tuning to the next chapter. Stay tuned!”

Beyond Preston & Steve, Romano hosted Her Story, a weekly show spotlighting impactful women in the Delaware Valley.

Beasley’s spokesperson thanked Romano for her contributions and wished her well, saying, “We’re grateful for her work and wish her the best moving forward.”

Beasley has faced financial challenges common in the radio industry. The company reported a $2.7 million net loss in Q1, citing “macroeconomic softness” in agency revenue. Operating loss nearly doubled to $2 million from $1.1 million in Q1 2024, with net revenue down 10.1% due to advertising declines and the closure of a digital unit and esports division.

Beasley laid off staff in Detroit and Tampa last week. Tyrone Johnson, co-host of 97.5 The Fanatic’s (WPEN-FM) afternoon show, was let go on April 25. 

The Philadelphia Business Journal reports layoffs have been ongoing: 102.9 WMGK-FM’s Andre Gardner was cut in October after 22 years, and 97.5 The Fanatic’s Bob Cooney was replaced in July by Mike Missanelli. Last May, Beasley reduced its workforce by 7%, including The Fanatic’s Jennifer Scordo and Pat Egan. Similar cuts occurred in 2023 and 2022.

Romano’s departure is notable, given Preston & Steve’s dominance in Philadelphia’s ratings since 2005. The show, blending comedy, music, interviews, impersonations, quirky news, and gags, airs weekdays from 6 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. Elliot and Morrison, who signed extensions through 2030, are joined by Casey “Casey Boy” Fosbenner, Nick McIlwain, and Marisa Magnatta.

In Philadelphia, Beasley also owns 95.7 BEN FM, 92.5 XTU (WXTU-FM), 97.5 The Fanatic (WPEN-FM), 102.9 WMGK-FM, and 860 WWDB-AM.