Big Changes, Familiar Voices Coming To WGN

Changes Coming

The CHICAGO TRIBUNE is reporting that TRIBUNE Talk WGN-A/CHICAGO will unveil a revamped lineup under GM JIMMY DE CASTRO, with a host of familiar names returning to the station on SEPTEMBER 3rd, with plans to find an FM frequency for additional programming in the works as well.

Among the many changes, STEVE COCHRAN, who has been filling in at WGN since leaving crosstown SALEM Talk WIND-A recently, will take over mornings, and JONATHON BRANDMEIER will move to a "virtual FM station" online at wgnfm.com while an FM frequency is sought.  The TRIBUNE reports that a likely scenario has overnight host BILL LEFF moving to 9a-noon (CT) with a co-host, weekenders and married couple BOB SIROTT and MARIANNE MURCIANO taking noon-3p, and GARRY MEIER remaining in the 3-7p slot but adding a co-host.  Also returning are former longtime midday hosts KATHY O'MALLEY and JUDY MARKEY, who will host a SATURDAY show 10a-noon.

In addition, the station will begin next month to use sister CW affiliate WGN-TV's "CHICAGO's Very Own" slogan.  The "virtual FM" will be known as "the g" and will launch with BRANDMEIER alone and more to be added later in what DE CASTRO called a "radio laboratory."  “We’re going to build it up until we get an FM and then we’re going to put them all on a talk FM,” he told the TRIBUNE.

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