Shakeup at KNBR: End of an Era After 51 Years
Published by Mauricio Segura in sports · 30 November 2023
SPORTS
Shakeup at KNBR: End of an Era After 51 Years
San Francisco, CA - In a shocking turn of events, KNBR, the iconic sports talk station, has bid farewell to its nightly call-in show after an astounding 51-year run. The winds of change have swept through the station, leaving both staff and fans in awe.
The bombshell dropped as KNBR's program director, Adam Copeland, announced significant shake-ups during the "Tolbert and Copes" afternoon show. The veteran host, F.P. Santangelo, and the morning show's Paul McCaffrey were among those let go, marking the end of an era.
The station, known for its deep roots in sports radio history, has seen a reshuffling of its deck, including the departure of longtime executive Lee Hammer and some digital personnel. Copeland, who took the reins as program director just three weeks ago, addressed the changes, acknowledging the challenging day and expressing gratitude for the contributions of the departed team.
The core of the station, the "Murph and Mac" morning show, now stands in transition, with fill-in hosts taking the reins temporarily. The station's move to join CBS Sports Radio's national syndicate show indicates a shift in direction, leaving fans wondering about the future landscape of their beloved KNBR.
Adding to the complexity, KNBR's nightly sports call-in show, a tradition that spanned over half a century, seems to have met its end. F.P. Santangelo, the host of the 6-10 p.m. slot, shared the news on social media, citing budget cuts as the reason for the change.
The sports talk giant, known for its rivalry with 95.7 The Game, has faced a drop in listenership. Ratings indicate a decline compared to its competitor, raising questions about the station's strategy in the evolving radio landscape.
The departure of Santangelo, who returned to KNBR in 2022 after an 11-year stint with the Washington Nationals, adds another layer of complexity to the story. His journey with the Giants broadcast team during the 2023 season adds uncertainty about the role he might play in 2024.
As KNBR navigates this tumultuous period, one thing remains certain: the station that has been a launching pad for Bay Area sports media luminaries faces a new chapter. The echoes of the nightly call-in show, which launched the careers of notable personalities, will linger as fans reflect on the end of an era.
In the world of sports talk radio, change is inevitable, but the spirit of the game and the love of the fans endure. As KNBR charts its course into the future, the loyal audience remains poised, eagerly anticipating the next chapter in this legendary station's story.