Deborah Howell, the longtime afternoon drive personality on Audacy's Rhythmic AC "94.7 The Wave" (KTWV), has departed the station after an 18-year tenure, capping a lineup revamp that promotes evening host Frankie Ross to the key 2-7 p.m. slot.
The exit ends Howell's run as host of the "No Stress Express," where her warm, sophisticated voice became synonymous with Southern California's unwind hour.
In an emotional Facebook post, Howell reflected: “Thanks, Radio! You’ve been my best friend, my muse, my deep love and my constant companion for as long as I can remember. Thank you for making all my wildest dreams come true.”
The shift completes recent changes at KTWV, including Greg Mack's move from weekends to mornings last month and Liz Hernandez transitioning to middays. The adjustments aim to refresh the station's "Soul of Southern California" vibe amid evolving listener habits in one of the nation's most competitive markets.
Howell, who performed under the name Deborah Rath early on, joined The Wave in 2008 after more than two decades in New York City. Her Big Apple resume included middays at Dance CHR "Hot 97" (WQHT, 1986-1994 as Deborah Rath), afternoons at R&B Oldies "98.7 Kiss FM" (WRKS), and a decade at Smooth Jazz "CD 101.9" (WQCD). In L.A., she replaced voice-tracked talent Don Burns, going live and building a loyal following with celebrity interviews (e.g., saxophonist Boney James, comedian Nikki Glaser) and entertainment insights.