Radio History: May 31

➦In 1898...Author, Columnist and radio minister Dr. Norman Vincent Peale was born in Bowersville Ohio. For 54 years (from 1935 to 1989), Peale hosted the weekly radio program The Art of Living.  He was best known for the best selling book The Power of Positive Thinking.  He served as mentor to televangelist Robert Schuller. He died Dec 24, 1993 at age 95.

➦In 1908...Entertainer Don Ameche was born Dominic Felix Amici (Died at age 85 from cancer – December 6, 1993), He was an Actor, voice artist and comedian. After playing in college shows, stock, and vaudeville, he became a major radio star in the early 1930s, which led to the offer of a movie contract from 20th Century Fox in 1935.

As a handsome, debonair leading man in 40 films over the next 14 years, he was a popular star in comedies, dramas, and musicals. In the 1950s he worked on Broadway and in television, and was the host of NBC's International Showtime from 1961 to 1965. Returning to film work in his later years, Ameche enjoyed a fruitful revival of his career beginning with his role as a villain in Trading Places (1983) and won the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for his performance in Cocoon (1985).

➦In 1924..the Chicago Tribune announced a significant shift for its radio station, WGN, marking a new era in broadcasting. The station, previously known as WDAP, was relocated to the Drake Hotel in Chicago after the Tribune acquired its equipment from Zenith Radio Corporation. This move aimed to reduce interference and improve broadcast quality, reflecting early efforts to refine radio’s technical infrastructure. The announcement highlighted the station’s new call letters, WGN, and its goal to enhance service for listeners, a pivotal moment in establishing WGN as a major player in American radio.

➦In 1943...The comic strip Archie Andrews came to radio on the Blue Network for the first time. Archie, Veronica and the gang remained on network radio for some nine years.

➦In 194?..Longtime Philadelphia and NYC Radio Personality Ross Brittain was born.

SiriusXM, iHM Merger Talks Going Nowhere

Early-stage discussions over a potential sale of iHeartMedia to SiriusXM have stalled after the two sides failed to reach agreement on terms, two people with knowledge of the negotiations said.

The sources, who were not authorized to speak publicly about the confidential talks and requested anonymity, told New York Times reporter Lauren Hirsch that the discussions could still be revived. 

Neither company immediately commented on the matter.

A combination would have created a major audio powerhouse, uniting SiriusXM’s satellite radio business with iHeartMedia’s vast network of broadcast stations, iHeartRadio streaming platform, and leading podcast operations. The deal was seen as a way for both traditional radio giants to counter mounting pressure from digital disruptors like Spotify in an increasingly fragmented audio market.

With the talks on hold, a key question now facing both companies is how they will chart independent strategies amid ongoing industry challenges. Traditional radio audiences and advertising have continued to erode as listeners shift to on-demand streaming, podcasts, and personalized digital audio.

SiriusXM has invested heavily in podcasts and streaming, while iHeartMedia has aggressively expanded its podcast portfolio and digital offerings. Both have reported podcast revenue growth even as core broadcast and satellite segments face headwinds.

The two companies share a long corporate history. Liberty SiriusXM Group, once part of billionaire John Malone’s media empire, previously held significant stakes in both. Liberty eventually sold its position in iHeartMedia — primarily a broadcast radio operator — and separated its SiriusXM satellite radio business into its own entity.

Talks of a potential tie-up first surfaced in late April 2026, driven by the shared need to offset the deterioration of legacy radio businesses. 

A deal would have combined complementary assets:  SiriusXM’s subscription model and national reach with iHeart’s local stations and advertising scale. Analysts and industry observers had viewed a merger as a defensive move in a market dominated by tech platforms. 

However, any revived discussions would likely face regulatory scrutiny over market concentration in audio advertising and podcast distribution, as well as challenges integrating iHeart’s substantial debt load.

Carr: Disney's Early License Review Is About DEI, Not 1A

FCC Chairman Brendan Carr rejected Disney's claims that the agency's early review of ABC station broadcast licenses is an unconstitutional effort to chill free speech, insisting the action centers on a long-running investigation into the company's DEI practices.

In a Friday interview on CNBC's "Squawk on the Street" with host Sara Eisen, Carr said Disney filed the renewal applications for its eight owned ABC TV stations "under protest" after the FCC ordered an accelerated review — years ahead of the original 2028–2031 schedule. Disney described the move as unlawful, arbitrary, and aimed at exerting editorial control.

Carr emphasized that the review stems from a March 2025 FCC probe into potential "invidious" discrimination in Disney's hiring, compensation, promotion, and workplace practices based on race, gender, or other protected characteristics, which could violate federal nondiscrimination laws. He criticized Disney's responses to document requests as incomplete, disingenuous, and nonresponsive, saying the early renewal ensures full compliance."

This has nothing to do with the First Amendment, nothing to do with editorial control, nothing to do with Jimmy Kimmel," Carr stated, dismissing Disney's public relations framing. He noted that broadcasters using public airwaves have unique public interest obligations and no absolute First Amendment right to a license.

Watch CNBC’s full interview with FCC Chairman Brendan Carr https://t.co/L8a2EF2NMG

— Tom Benson (@Tombenson1) May 30, 2026

The FCC plans to issue a public notice opening a pleading cycle for petitions to deny the renewals, allowing Disney to respond. Outcomes could include renewal, a hearing, or other actions based on facts and law, with Carr stressing "no company is above the law, including Disney." 

He downplayed the likelihood of revoking licenses but said it depends on evidence.

Host Sara Eisen pressed Carr on the timing — following public criticism from President Trump of ABC content — and whether the action risks chilling speech across broadcasting. Carr maintained the probe is narrowly focused on DEI compliance and enforcement of existing rules, not retaliation or content.

The dispute highlights broader tensions over FCC regulation of broadcasters' public interest duties versus free speech concerns. No final decision on the licenses has been made.

Trump's Great American State Fair Faces Uncertainty

The Great American State Fair, part of President Donald Trump’s Freedom 250 initiative, faces an immediate public relations crisis just days after its initial performer lineup was announced.

Organized by Freedom 250, a nonprofit tied to the Trump administration, the 16-day event on Washington, D.C.’s National Mall (scheduled for June 25–July 10, 2026) aims to celebrate America’s semiquincentennial with a “World Fair-style” spectacle of music, patriotism, and unity. Organizers described it as a nonpartisan tribute to the nation’s 250th anniversary. 

However, the announcement of the first wave of acts triggered a rapid wave of withdrawals, with multiple headliners distancing themselves over the event’s perceived political ties to President Trump.

Key Artists Who Backed Out and Why

Changes At 60-Minutes: "Trump's Fingerprints Are Everywhere"

CBS News announced a major leadership overhaul at 60 Minutes this week, appointing outsider Nick Bilton as executive producer while parting ways with several longtime staffers, including executive producer Tanya Simon and correspondents Sharyn Alfonsi and Cecilia Vega.

The shakeup, led by CBS News Editor-in-Chief Bari Weiss, aims to modernize the venerable newsmagazine with a greater emphasis on digital reach, harder investigative scoops, and adaptation to changing audience habits. It breaks from the show's tradition of promoting internal veterans.

Nick Bilton

Nick Bilton, a former New York Times tech columnist, author, and documentary filmmaker with no prior broadcast TV news leadership experience, replaces Tanya Simon (a 25+ year veteran and daughter of legendary correspondent Bob Simon).

Other exits include executive editor Draggan Mihailovich, senior producers, and correspondents Sharyn Alfonsi and Cecilia Vega. This follows Bill Owens' emotional resignation in April 2025 over concerns about journalistic independence amid corporate pressures.

The program wrapped its 58th season as the top-rated primetime news show, averaging about 9.1 million viewers (up 9%).

Reactions from Personnel

Judge Orders Kennedy Center To Remove Trump’s Name

A federal judge on Friday ordered President Donald Trump’s name removed from the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts and blocked plans to close the venue for two years of renovations.

U.S. District Judge Christopher Cooper granted in part a preliminary injunction sought by Rep. Joyce Beatty (D-Ohio), an ex officio board member. The ruling requires Kennedy Center officials to remove Trump’s name from the building facade, website, and official materials within two weeks. It also halts the planned July closure while allowing some construction to proceed. Cooper just happens to be married to Joe Biden’s personal attorney Amy Jeffress.

The decision creates major uncertainty for the center’s immediate future. Leaders had already canceled most performances in preparation for the shutdown.

TV Ratings: ABC WNT Remains Tops In 3 Demos

For the sixth week in a row, “World News Tonight with David Muir” stood as the No. 1 program in Total Viewers (8.187 million) on all of broadcast and cable (excluding sports) during the week of May 18, 2026, based on Live+Same Day Big Data Plus Panel Program Ratings from Nielsen Media Research.

• “World News Tonight” ranked as the No. 1 newscast across broadcast and cable in Total Viewers (8.187 million), Adults 25-54 (966,000) and Adults 18-49 (727,000).
• “World News Tonight” outperformed “NBC Nightly News” (6.093 million, 867,000 and 639,000, respectively) in Total Viewers (+34%/+2.094 million), Adults 25-54 (+11%/+99,000) and Adults 18-49 (+14%/+88,000).
• “World News Tonight” widened its Total Viewers margins over “NBC Nightly News” both week to week (+9% – 2.094 million vs. 1.919 million) and year to year (+37% – 2.094 million vs. 1.524 million).

UMG Board Rejcts Take-Over Offer

Universal Music Group’s Board of Directors has unanimously rejected an unsolicited $64 billion takeover proposal from Bill Ackman’s Pershing Square Capital Management, saying the offer “fundamentally and materially undervalues” the company and is not in the best interests of UMG, its shareholders, artists, songwriters, employees, and other stakeholders.

The non-binding proposal was received on April 7, 2026. After a thorough review with outside financial and legal advisors, the Board determined it would not deliver superior value creation. The Board cited strong support from shareholders and stakeholders for its decision.

Radio Represented In New Country Power Players List

Billboard has unveiled its 12th annual Country Power Players list, spotlighting the executives shaping country music’s continued dominance across charts, streaming, touring, and especially radio and media. 

While the list is topped by agency leader Austin Neal as Executive of the Year, the Media category highlights the programmers, broadcasters, and format captains who keep country music resonating with millions of listeners daily.

Key Radio and Media Honorees

Tim Roberts, Country format vp at Audacy, stands out for steering one of the largest collections of country stations in the U.S. His role involves shaping programming strategy that balances tradition with emerging sounds to maintain strong audience engagement.

Radio History: May 30

➦In 1894...John Florence Sullivan was born (Died – March 17, 1956).  Known professionally as Fred Allen, he was a comedian. His absurdist, topically pointed radio program The Fred Allen Show (1932–1949) made him one of the most popular and forward-looking humorists in the Golden Age of American radio.

His best-remembered gag was his long-running mock feud with friend and fellow comedian Jack Benny, but it was only part of his appeal; radio historian John Dunning (in On the Air: The Encyclopedia of Old-Time Radio) wrote that Allen was radio's most admired comedian and most frequently censored. A master ad libber, Allen often tangled with his network's executives (and often barbed them on the air over the battles) while developing routines whose style and substance influenced fellow comic talents, including Groucho Marx, Stan Freberg, Henry Morgan and Johnny Carson; his avowed fans also included President Franklin D. Roosevelt, humorist James Thurber, and novelists William Faulkner, John Steinbeck and Herman Wouk (who began his career writing for Allen).

Allen has two stars on the Hollywood Walk of Fame: a radio star at 6713 Hollywood Blvd. and a TV star at 7001 Hollywood Blvd

➦In 1908...Melvin Jerome Blanc born (Died – July 10, 1989). He was a voice actor and radio personality. 

Mel Blanc & Characters

After beginning his over-60-year career performing in radio, he became known for his work in animation as the voices of Bugs Bunny, Daffy Duck, Porky Pig, Tweety Bird, Sylvester the Cat, Yosemite Sam, Foghorn Leghorn, Marvin the Martian, Pepé Le Pew, Speedy Gonzales, Wile E. Coyote, Road Runner, the Tasmanian Devil, and many of the other characters from the Looney Tunes and Merrie Melodies theatrical cartoons during the golden age of American animation. He voiced all of the major male Warner Bros. cartoon characters except for Elmer Fudd, whose voice was provided by fellow radio personality Arthur Q. Bryan, although Blanc later voiced Fudd, as well, after Bryan's death.

He later voiced characters for Hanna-Barbera's television cartoons, including Barney Rubble on The Flintstones and Mr. Spacely on The Jetsons. Blanc was also the original voice of Woody Woodpecker for Universal Pictures and provided vocal effects for the Tom and Jerry cartoons directed by Chuck Jones for Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer, replacing William Hanna. During the golden age of radio, Blanc also frequently performed on the programs of famous comedians from the era, including Jack Benny, Abbott and Costello, Burns and Allen and Judy Canova.

Boston Radio: WROR Launches New Morning Show Monday

Adam 12 and LBF

Lauren Beckham Falcone (LBF) and Adam 12 will launch “The ROR Morning Show with LBF and Adam 12” next Monday on 105.7 WROR, filling the morning slot after Bob Bronson’s retirement last week.

Beasley Media Group announced the new team Thursday.

LBF has been part of WROR mornings since 2011 and previously worked as a columnist for the Boston Herald. Adam 12 brings 30 years of experience in radio and digital media. He started at alternative rock stations WFNX and WBCN, and most recently served as executive producer of the Toucher & Hardy Show on 98.5 The Sports Hub and program director of WBOS.

“We’re excited to launch the new ROR Morning Show with LBF and Adam 12,” said Beasley Media Group’s Mary Menna. “LBF and Adam have a natural chemistry, incredible energy, and a genuine connection with listeners making mornings on WROR both entertaining and relatable.”

Program Director Scott Morello added: “Pairing him with LBF creates a morning show that’s energetic, funny, and incredibly engaging. We’re excited to build something special for Boston listeners.”

Why Are So Many High Profile Personalities Now Retiring?

Empty studios everywhere why now?

A wave of veteran U.S. radio personalities has announced retirements in 2025–2026, often after decades on air, amid widespread industry layoffs and cost-cutting at major broadcasters. While many high-profile hosts frame their exits as personal choices—citing family time, burnout after early-morning shifts, or new pursuits—the timing aligns with aggressive budget reductions, debt restructuring, and declining ad revenue as listeners shift to streaming and podcasts.

High-profile examples include:

• Dave Ryan of KDWB in Minneapolis, who retired May 22, 2026, after 33 years at the station and 46 in radio. He described the decision as long-planned and voluntary, emphasizing excitement for life beyond the grind, though it surprised many listeners.
• Bert Weiss ended “The Bert Show” in Atlanta in October 2025 after 25 years, citing a desire for family, travel, engagement, and other projects. He expressed being “at peace” with leaving.

Other longtime hosts, such as those in Chicago, Charlotte, and Omaha, have similarly stepped away in recent months.

Buffalo Radio: Longtime Personality Janet Snyder Retiring

After more than four decades in broadcasting and 32 years hosting mornings on WKSE-FM (Kiss 98.5), Janet Snyder is retiring from the airwaves.

Snyder, who co-hosted the station’s popular morning show with Nicholas Picholas (and sidekick “Weeze”), will deliver her final broadcast Friday, May 29.

A Buffalo native and Ithaca College graduate (class of 1987), Snyder began her career at Kiss 98.5 as a midday host and assistant promotion director. She quickly moved to New York City, landing a midday shift at the legendary WHTZ (Z100) — then the highest-rated station in America — where she spent nearly four years. She returned home to Buffalo in 1992 and has been a fixture at Kiss ever since, taking over mornings in 1994.

ABC Submits Broadcast Renewal Applications to FCC

Disney’s ABC has filed license renewal applications for its eight owned-and-operated TV stations with the FCC — but “under protest” — after the agency ordered an unprecedented accelerated review.

The filings were due by May 28, 2026, per the FCC Media Bureau’s directive issued in late April. The stations include major-market outlets such as WABC-TV in New York and KABC-TV in Los Angeles.

Their licenses were not originally set to expire until 2028 or later.

The FCC’s move came just days after President Donald Trump publicly called for ABC late-night host Jimmy Kimmel to be fired. Trump’s demand followed a joke Kimmel made on his show about First Lady Melania Trump, describing her as having “the glow of an expectant widow.” 

TV Ratings: Fox News Leads ABC In Primetime

FOX News Channel (FNC) ended the week of May 18th with over 2.6 million weekday primetime viewers and 248,000 in the 25-54 demo, leading ABC (2.1 million viewers), according to Nielsen Media Research Big Data + Panel. 

In Monday – Sunday primetime: FNC saw nearly 2.3 million viewers and in Monday – Sunday total day, FNC drew 1.5 million viewers. Notably, CBS Evening News continued its ratings dip (3.9 million viewers, 608,000 in the 25-54 demo), with the program posting its seventh consecutive week under 4 million viewers (including all weekday airings).

The Five commanded the week, claiming 3.5 million viewers and 324,000 in the 25-54 demo. During the 6 PM/ET hour, Special Report with Bret Baier averaged 2.6 million viewers and 244,000 in the 25-54 demo. At 7 PM/ET, The Ingraham Angle notched 2.5 million viewers and 221,000 in the 25-54 demo. During the 8 PM/ET hour, Jesse Watters Primetime nabbed 3.1 million viewers and 271,000 in the 25-54 demo. At 9 PM/ET, Hannity secured 2.5 million viewers and 240,000 in the 25-54 demo. During the 11PM/ET hour, FOX News @ Night with Trace Gallagher drew 1.5 million viewers and 157,000 in the 25-54 demo.

LA Mayoral Race: Support For Spencer Pratt Surges

Spencer Pratt, the former reality TV star from The Hills and current Los Angeles mayoral candidate, appeared as a guest on Gutfeld! on Fox News Channel on Thursday

In the interview, Pratt discussed his insurgent campaign for LA mayor ahead of the June primary. He positioned himself as a frustrated outsider and "look around" candidate, emphasizing visible failures in the city like homelessness, crime, drug addiction, and poor wildfire response—issues he experienced personally after his Pacific Palisades home burned in the 2025 fires.

Key Points from the Appearance:

• Criticism of Incumbent Leadership: Pratt sharply criticized Mayor Karen Bass and other Democrats for incompetence, corruption, and mismanagement (e.g., budget cuts to the fire department and being absent during crises). He highlighted how his own losses made him a victim of "failed" policies rather than just a critic.
• Campaign Platform: He advocated for practical measures like daily street cleaning, mandatory treatment for drug addicts (not just empty beds), better wildfire prep, auditing corruption, and using tax money more effectively instead of enabling "naked drug addict zombies" on the streets.
• Celebrity Endorsements: When asked about rumored Hollywood support (e.g., names like Leonardo DiCaprio or Jamie Foxx), Pratt said he doesn't want celebrity endorsements. He prefers backing from "moms and animal lovers" in LA, and he actually welcomes attacks from celebrities as a sign he's doing well.
• Tone and Style: Pratt was candid, humorous, and unfiltered, aligning with the show's satirical style. He contrasted real-world observations with opponents' "lies" and tied into broader discussions (e.g., comparing political denial to the Jill Biden interview segment).

The segment portrayed Pratt as a surging contender (polling close to Bass in some surveys, with strong fundraising) fueled by voter frustration. Gutfeld and the panel highlighted his viral social media savvy and "outside the box" thinking as reasons for his rise.

Election Day is Tuesday. Political observers are saying this is one of the best-run campaigns they've ever seen, putting a Republican within strking distance of becoming mayor of Los Angeles. He's done it with innovative strategies, like this ad.

Overall, the appearance was a strong, entertaining boost for Pratt's non-traditional campaign, playing well to a conservative audience by framing him as a common-sense alternative to entrenched LA leadership. Clips and discussions from the show circulated widely on social media.

FCC Issues 'Reminder' To Broadcasters

The FCC has released a seven-page notice reminding radio stations they face potential regulatory consequences for not meeting their public interest obligations, which remain broadly defined, and warning that broadcasters have more limited First Amendment rights than other media.

“The Commission will continue to engage in a robust review of applications to ensure compliance with our rules and determine whether broadcasters have met their obligation to operate in the public interest,” the Media Bureau stated. The review applies not only to license renewals but also to station sales, assignments, and transfers.

The notice repeatedly describes broadcasters as “public trustees” and “temporary permittees” granted exclusive use of scarce public spectrum in exchange for serving local communities. It argues this government licensing role creates obligations that do not apply to newspapers, cable channels, streamers, or podcasts.

“Broadcasters are temporary permittees — fiduciaries — of a great public resource and they must meet the highest standards which are embraced in the public interest concept,” the document says, citing prior court precedent.

Happy TGIF: Here's The Pulse For May 19

Radio Broadcasting

New Morning Show: Lauren Beckham Falcone (LBF) and Adam 12 will launch “The ROR Morning Show with LBF and Adam 12” next Monday on 105.7 WROR, filling the morning slot after Bob Bronson’s retirement last week.

Buffalo Retirement: After more than four decades in broadcasting and 32 years hosting mornings on WKSE-FM (Kiss 98.5), Janet Snyder is retiring from the airwaves. Snyder, who co-hosted the station’s popular morning show with Nicholas Picholas (and sidekick “Weeze”), will deliver her final broadcast Friday.

Why Now? A wave of veteran U.S. radio personalities has announced retirements in 2025–2026, often after decades on air, amid widespread industry layoffs and cost-cutting at major broadcasters. While many high-profile hosts frame their exits as personal choices—citing family time, burnout after early-morning shifts, or new pursuits—the timing aligns with aggressive budget reductions, debt restructuring, and declining ad revenue as listeners shift to streaming and podcasts.

CBS' 60 Minutes Gets New Executive Producer

CBS News has named Nick Bilton as the new executive producer of “60 Minutes,” replacing Tanya Simon in a leadership shake-up aimed at modernizing the iconic newsmagazine

.
Editor-in-Chief Bari Weiss announced the move Thursday, saying it was time for “a new approach and a new chapter.” Bilton, a longtime technology journalist, documentarian and former New York Times columnist with no prior traditional broadcast experience, was chosen to lead the program.Simon, who had held the top job for about a year after three decades at the show, is departing. 

The change caps a period of turmoil for “60 Minutes,” which premiered in 1968 and is famous for its ticking stopwatch opening.

In a memo to staff, Weiss and CBS News President Tom Cibrowski said the goal is “building a show that thrives in the 21st century.”

Twin Cities Radio: WCCO's Denny Long Hanging Up Headphones

WCCO's Denny Long

Denny Long, a WCCO Radio mainstay for 55 years, will sign off for the final time this weekend on his Saturday morning show.

Only the late Sid Hartman, with 65 years, had a longer career at the legendary Twin Cities station. Long is stepping away earlier than planned due to a medical diagnosis.

The longtime broadcaster, known for his professionalism, integrity, and versatility, shared his reflections Thursday morning with Vineeta Sawkar on WCCO Morning News.

Texas Radio: 'Frito' Is Back On WTAW in Bryan-College Station

Frito and the retiring Scott DeLucia

Tucker "Frito" Young will join The Infomaniacs on News Talk 1620/94.5 WTAW in Bryan-College Station, replacing longtime host Scott DeLucia, who is retiring June 5 after 59 years in broadcasting.
Young, a Bryan-College Station radio veteran, made his debut Wednesday morning. 

The move represents a homecoming for the host, who began his career at WTAW as an intern and news reporter in the early 2000s.

DeLucia personally approached Young about the position after announcing his retirement. Young told DeLucia on air that the opportunity held special meaning because he grew up listening to the show.

"I was excited by the opportunity, mostly because growing up in College Station and Bryan and around the area, if you listen to radio, you would listen to you [DeLucia] and Jay and Tom and everybody else," Young said. 

NBC To Launch Bay Area NOW On June 1

NBC News has announced to Hallie Jackson NOW will launch in the San Francisco Bay Area market on Monday, June 1, on NBC Bay Area / KNTV and air every weekday from 2-3 p.m. PT. The launch will give Bay Area viewers expanded access to live national and local news coverage on broadcast ahead of the California primary election on Tuesday, June 2.

The expansion marks the first time the show will air on broadcast television beyond NBC News’ free streaming service, NBC News NOW.

“I started my NBC career in California, so it’s especially meaningful to expand Hallie Jackson NOW to Bay Area viewers on NBC,” said anchor Hallie Jackson. “Our goal every day is to deliver sharp reporting and meaningful conversations that meet viewers where they are, and that now includes local Bay Area audiences on NBC.”

Chicago Radio: 104.3 The Score Raises $805K+ During Radiothon

104.3 The Score (WSCR-FM), an Audacy station, partnered with the Chicago Cubs and Cubs Charities for the third annual “Cubs for a Cure” radiothon and raised over $805,000, surpassing last year’s total. All radiothon proceeds go towards BrainUp, a nonprofit committed to raising awareness for brain cancer. 

“More than 1,900 listeners rallied together to pledge donations, and we are deeply moved by their incredible generosity,” said Mitch Rosen, Vice President of Sports Programming, Audacy Chicago. “Through the stories shared by our hosts and guests, we see firsthand how cancer impacts families. This radiothon is a reminder that no one has to fight alone. Our heartfelt thanks go out to our community, sponsors, team, and our great partner, the Chicago Cubs.” 

The 24-hour radiothon was simulcast on Marquee Sports Network and began on May 21 at 10:00 a.m. CT. The radiothon was hosted by 104.3 The Score’s Leila Rahimi, Marshall Harris, Matt Spiegel, Laurence Holmes, Mike Mulligan and Mark Grote, alongside former host Danny Parkins, who returned to host in tribute to his late brother.

Radio History: May 29

Bob Hope circa '40s

➦In 1903...comedian Bob Hope was born Leslie Townes Hope in London England (Died – July 27, 2003). He was a British-born American stand-up comedian, vaudevillian, actor, singer, dancer, athlete, and author. With a career that spanned nearly 80 years, Hope appeared in more than 70 short and feature films, with 54 feature films with Hope as star, including a series of seven "Road" musical comedy movies with Bing Crosby as Hope's top-billed partner.

In addition to hosting the Academy Awards show 19 times, more than any other host, he appeared in many stage productions and television roles, and was the author of 14 books. The song "Thanks for the Memory" was his signature tune. Hope was born in the Eltham district of southeast London, UK, arrived in the United States of America with his family at the age of four, and grew up in the Cleveland, Ohio, area.

After a brief career as a boxer in the late 1910s, he began his career in show business in the early 1920s, initially as a comedian and dancer on the vaudeville circuit, before acting on Broadway. Hope began appearing on radio and in films starting in 1934. He was praised for his comedic timing, specializing in one-liners and rapid-fire delivery of jokes which often were self-deprecating. He helped establish modern American stand-up comedy.

Older Adults Say AM Radio Still Matters

New AARP research shows that AM radio continues to play an important role in the lives of Americans 50 and older, especially in terms of access, trusted information, and public safety. While listening habits are evolving, many still rely on AM radio for news, weather reports, emergency alerts, and community programming, leading most to believe that it should remain a standard feature in vehicles.

AM radio access is common, even if listening is less frequent

The majority of adults 50-plus (86%) have access to AM radio in their vehicles; however, listening habits are mixed. Thirty‑two percent say they listen to AM radio while driving, and 36% say they do not. While day‑to‑day listening is limited, most older adults (52%) say that keeping AM radio in vehicles is important.

NPR Cuts 10 Journalists in Layoffs, Adds 18 Buyouts

NPR has laid off 10 journalists, including veteran reporters, and accepted voluntary buyouts from at least 18 additional news staffers as part of a cost-cutting reorganization.The public broadcaster also plans to leave eight positions unfilled. 

The total staff reductions amount to 4% of NPR’s content division, which covers the newsroom and podcasts. No employees working on news programs or podcasts were affected, according to the network.

Editor-in-Chief Thomas Evans addressed the cuts in a memo to staff, calling the day “incredibly heavy.”

“Today has been incredibly heavy, and I want to acknowledge how difficult it is to say goodbye to our colleagues,” Evans wrote.

Early Ratings Mixed For Comics Unleashed Debut

Byron Allen’s Comics Unleashed premiered in the 11:35 p.m. slot on CBS Friday night, drawing 995,000 total viewers and 116,000 adults 18-49 for its first-run opening half-hour, according to initial Nielsen Live+Same Day data. 

The second half-hour repeat averaged 600,000 total viewers and 55,000 in the demo.

The new late-night show significantly trailed its competitors nationally. It was down about 85% in total viewers and 95% in the 18-49 demo compared to the prior night’s series-high finale of CBS’s The Late Show with Stephen Colbert (6.7 million total, 1.1 million demo). 

Good Morning: Here's The Pulse Briefing For Thursday, May 28

Radio Broadcasting

AM Radio In Demand: New research shows that AM radio continues to play an important role in the lives of Americans 50 and older, especially in terms of access, trusted information, and public safety. While listening habits are evolving, many still rely on AM radio for news, weather reports, emergency alerts, and community programming, leading most to believe that it should remain a standard feature in vehicles.

NPR Makes Cuts: NPR has laid off 10 journalists, including veteran reporters, and accepted voluntary buyouts from at least 18 additional news staffers as part of a cost-cutting reorganization.The public broadcaster also plans to leave eight positions unfilled. 

New Foreign I-D Rules Starting: The FCC is moving ahead with revised foreign sponsorship identification rules for broadcasters next year, while at the same time easing pressure on stations by delaying some of the most controversial technical requirements tied to advertising. The FCC’s Media Bureau confirmed this week that revised foreign sponsorship identification requirements adopted in 2024 will take effect June 7 for any new leased programming agreements or renewals signed after that date.

Official: Correspondent Booted Off CBS '60 Minutes'

Sharyn Alfonsi, a veteran “60 Minutes” correspondent since 2015, believes CBS News has effectively removed her from the program after she publicly challenged Editor-in-Chief Bari Weiss’s handling of her investigative report.

The report examined the Trump administration’s deportation of Venezuelan men to El Salvador’s notorious CECOT prison, described as a harsh maximum-security facility. Alfonsi accused the network of pulling the segment for political reasons after Weiss demanded changes, including more balance with the White House perspective, just hours before its scheduled December 2025 broadcast.

Alfonsi remains a CBS News employee, but her contract with “60 Minutes” expired earlier this month. 

ABC News Dominates 47th Annual News Emmys with 8 Wins

ABC News led the 47th annual News & Documentary Emmy Awards, securing eight wins including the night’s highest honor — Outstanding Live News Program — for the fourth consecutive year with ABC World News Tonight with David Muir.

National Geographic finished a very close second with seven wins, all swept by its hit series Trafficked with Mariana van Zeller.Key HighlightsABC World News Tonight with David Muir extended its streak as the top live news program for the fourth straight Emmy cycle.

Trafficked with Mariana van Zeller emerged as the evening’s biggest single-program winner, claiming every award Nat Geo earned.

The results highlight Disney’s dominance across both flagship broadcast news and high-impact documentary storytelling.

The News Emmys honor outstanding achievements in journalism and nonfiction programming. Additional category winners and full results are expected to be released in the coming days.

Trump Refiles Defamation Lawsuit Vs. WSJ

President Donald Trump filed a revised $10 billion defamation lawsuit Wednesday against the publisher of The Wall Street Journal, days after a federal judge dismissed his original complaint over an article about a 2003 birthday letter to Jeffrey Epstein.

The new filing in Miami federal court targets Dow Jones & Co. (WSJ’s publisher), News Corp., Rupert Murdoch, CEO Robert Thomson, and two Journal reporters. It alleges the July 2025 article falsely tarnished Trump’s reputation by reporting on a bawdy birthday greeting — reportedly bearing Trump’s signature and including a drawing of a naked woman — that was part of a book compiled for Epstein’s 50th birthday.

U.S. District Judge Darrin Gayles had dismissed the initial lawsuit earlier this year, ruling that it failed to sufficiently plead “actual malice” — the high legal bar requiring proof that the defendants knew the information was false or acted with reckless disregard for the truth. The judge allowed Trump until May 27 to refile an amended complaint.

CNN: GOP Favors Marco Rubio As Presidential Candidate

CNN chief data analyst Harry Enten says Florida Sen. Marco Rubio has emerged as the clear favorite among Republican voters to be the party’s 2028 presidential nominee — second only to President Trump himself.

“Marco Rubio is really, really, really popular with Republicans,” Enten said Wednesday on CNN’s News Central. “His chances to be the Republican nominee in 2028 are up like a rocket taking off from Cape Canaveral.”

Radio History: May 28

➦In 1957....The National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences (NARAS) is established, leading to the creation of the annual Grammy Awards.

➦In 1958….Top40 1010WINS pranked rival  WMGM 1050 AM with a Charles DeGaulle phone call..

Before the era of radio shock jocks and tv prank-yankers, there was the infamous Charles de Gaulle Hoax of 1958, when DeGaulle was President of France.

Charlotte Radio: Matt And Liz Leaving The Morning Mix

Longtime Charlotte radio hosts Matt Harris and Liz Luda are signing off The Morning Mix on Mix 100.9, ending the show’s run on local airwaves after a station sale.

Harris, co-host of the program, announced the news Wednesday, citing the recent sale of the station as the reason for the departure. “No shade toward the current company,” Harris posted on social media. “They sold the station. What are you going to do?”

The Mix was sold earlier this year by Radio One to the Bible Broadcasting Network, which owns the 100.9 frequency and operates it under the call letters WYFQ.

Harris has been a fixture in Charlotte radio since 2001. He previously co-hosted the popular Matt and Ramona show with Ramona Holloway until her departure in 2023. Luda joined the program afterward and has co-hosted alongside Harris ever since.

Charlotte Radio: The Tanner In the Morning Show Exits WSOC

Beasley Media Group announces that longtime WSOC-FM Charlotte morning personalities Rob Tanner, Catherine Lane, and Chris Allen will retire and step away from their day-to-day roles on the station’s beloved “Tanner in the Morning Show” following an extraordinary 22-year run entertaining and connecting with listeners across the Carolinas. 

The show’s official last day on the air is set for Friday, June 19th.

For over two decades, the trio has helped wake up the region with laughter, country music, and heartfelt conversations that became part of listeners’ daily routines. Their chemistry, authenticity, and deep connection to the community helped make the show one of Charlotte’s most recognizable and enduring morning brands.

College Station Radio: WTAW's Scott DeLucia Retires After 59-Years

Scott DeLucia, the longtime host of WTAW’s “The Infomaniacs,” announced his retirement Tuesday morning during his show.

His final broadcast will air June 5, ending a nearly 60-year radio career spent almost entirely in the Brazos Valley.DeLucia, 75, made the announcement live on air, consistent with how he has conducted his career. 

He started in radio at age 17 and spent the vast majority of his professional life with Bryan Broadcasting, aside from a short stint in television.

Tegna Names New CEO

TEGNA Inc. has appointed Patrick Paolini as its new Chief Executive Officer, effective June 1. Paolini, a longtime Fox Television Stations executive, will oversee the company’s daily operations, revenue-generating strategies, local journalism and production, and growth initiatives. 

He will report directly to TEGNA’s Board of Directors.

The move comes after former CEO Mike Steib stepped down in March, shortly following Nexstar Media Group’s announcement of its $6.2 billion acquisition of TEGNA. The merger closed but remains in legal limbo due to ongoing antitrust challenges and a court order blocking full integration of TEGNA’s operations.

Report: Anti-Trust Regulators Expected To OK PSKY, WBD Deal

US antitrust regulators appear poised to approve Paramount's $110 billion takeover of Warner Bros. Discovery after a two-hour meeting Tuesday with Paramount CEO David Ellison, according to people familiar with the discussions.

Department of Justice staff attorneys grilled Ellison and other top Paramount executives during the session but ultimately seemed swayed by arguments that the massive media merger would not harm competition, other studios, creative talent, or movie theaters. Ellison reiterated the company's commitment to theatrical film releases as part of the pitch.

The proposed acquisition, valued at approximately $110–111 billion, would combine Paramount (under Skydance ownership led by Ellison) with Warner Bros. Discovery. This creates a media powerhouse encompassing two major Hollywood studios (Paramount and Warner Bros.), streaming services (Paramount+ and Max), news outlets (CBS and CNN), and extensive film, TV, and sports rights libraries. Warner Bros. Discovery shareholders approved the deal earlier, advancing it to regulatory review. The DOJ's antitrust division has been investigating potential impacts on studio output, content rights, streaming competition, and theatrical distribution, including issuing subpoenas in March.

Approval from the DOJ would mark a significant step toward closing one of the largest media deals in recent years. However, the transaction still faces scrutiny from state attorneys general (notably California) and possibly international regulators. Opponents, including thousands of industry workers, actors, directors, producers, and some Democratic lawmakers, have raised concerns about reduced competition, job losses, higher consumer prices, and consolidation in Hollywood.

Get The Scoop: The Pulse Has It For Wednesday, May 27

Radio Broadcasting

What's Going On In Charlotte? Two Morning Shows are exiting...Beasley Media Group announces that longtime WSOC-FM Charlotte morning personalities Rob Tanner, Catherine Lane, and Chris Allen will retire and step away from the "Tanner in the Morning Show” following an extraordinary 22-year run. Also, Longtime Charlotte radio hosts Matt Harris and Liz Luda are signing off The Morning Mix on Mix 100.9.

iHM MM Retires: iHeartMedia Mansfield, home to seven radio stations, and iHeartMedia Marion, home to three stations, announced Monday that longtime market President Margie Tasseff will retire, effective June 1, concluding a nearly 40-year career with the company and a lasting legacy across the Ohio communities.

RAB Makes Appointment: The RAB has named Sabina Widmann executive vice president. Widmann will oversee member engagement and success, with a primary focus on broadcaster initiatives, enhancing member services, and expanding offerings as the organization aligns resources to meet the evolving needs of the radio industry.

TV Ratings: CBS Evening News Bounces Back

Tony Dokoupil’s “CBS Evening News” climbed above 4 million viewers for the week ended May 22, the first time the program has reached that level in weeks, according to Nielsen data.

The newscast averaged a little more than 4 million total viewers and 605,000 in the key 25-54 advertiser demographic. That’s up from about 3.8 million viewers and 482,000 in the demo the previous week.

While “CBS Evening News” remains a distant third behind its competitors, the gains mark a positive sign for Dokoupil, who has faced intense scrutiny since taking over as anchor in early January.

ABC’s “World News Tonight” continues to dominate with nearly 8.2 million viewers and 966,000 in the 25-54 demo. NBC’s “NBC Nightly News” drew nearly 6.1 million viewers and 867,000 in the demo.

The 4-million-viewer mark has been viewed as a key benchmark in recent months. Prior to Dokoupil’s arrival, CBS experimented with a dual-anchor format featuring Maurice DuBois and John Dickerson. That version frequently fell below 4 million viewers and lost audience as NBC transitioned to a new anchor.