The parent companies of WFAN and ESPN New York have reached an agreement that enhances ESPN New York’s broadcast range while bringing an end to WCBS-AM 880’s nearly sixty-year history as an all-news station, Audacy and Good Karma Brands revealed on Monday.
Starting this fall, Audacy, which owns WFAN, will license its 880 AM signal to ESPN New York through a local marketing agreement. The two companies have been rivals for years, a rivalry highlighted by exchanges between WFAN’s “Mike & the Mad Dog” and ESPN New York’s “The Michael Kay Show” on and off the air.
The leadership at ESPN New York, which currently broadcasts on WEPN-FM 98.7, has consistently indicated they would not renew their lease for that signal, which ends in late August. Their strategy was to shift their focus toward digital platforms. Although Good Karma Brands owns WEPN-AM 1050, the 880 AM signal is significantly stronger.
The financial terms of the deal between Audacy and Good Karma have not been disclosed yet. The agreement, which takes effect on August 26, is reportedly a three-year lease according to sources familiar with the details.
The duration of the agreement suggests ESPN intends to maintain its local programming on the station, with 880 AM set to host “The Michael Kay Show,” as well as the morning show “DiPietro & Rothenberg” and “Bart & Hahn” in the midday slot. Pending approval from the FCC, the station’s call letters will change from WCBS to WHSQ-AM.
Audacy, which owns the rights to the Mets’ broadcasts, will continue airing the games on 880 AM, retaining full control over the broadcasts.
880 AM has been a staple in New York media for decades, with its news format dating back to 1967. However, with Audacy also operating the similarly formatted WINS-AM 1010, maintaining both stations has become unsustainable in today’s media landscape.
While the full extent of job losses remains uncertain, it is anticipated that news anchors, producers, and other staff will be affected.
{Matzav.com}
Wow I can’t believe 1010 WINS, wins.
It’s a shame because when I would listen to the radio for local news, I would listen to WCBS because they’re signal was far better, especially in New Jersey then WINS.
I hope they utilize the FM band.
Tephilim are not warm on tihish bav!
This is halloche.
Wow I can’t believe 1010 WINS, wins.
It’s a shame because when I would listen to the radio for local news, I would listen to WCBS because they’re signal was far better, especially in New Jersey then WINS.
I hope they utilize the FM band.