WPHT To Move Michael Smerconish To Afternoons

Moving

CBS RADIO Talk WPHT-A/PHILADELPHIA is moving MICHAEL SMERCONISH from mornings to afternoons, reports his syndicator, DIAL GLOBAL.  The move means that DIAL GLOBAL will cease distribution of the morning show effectve JANUARY 1st, but SMERCONISH's noon-3p (ET) show will continue to be distributed by DIAL GLOBAL.

In other WPHT moves, the station is bringing in CUMULUS Talk KCMO-A/KANSAS CITY host CHRIS STIGALL for mornings, starting JANUARY 3rd, and will move evening host DOM GIORDANO to 9a-noon. The moves will take PREMIERE's GLENN BECK and SEAN HANNITY off the WPHT schedule.

"MICHAEL is the cornerstone of our station. We are pleased that he has chosen to keep WPHT as his flagship," said CBS RADIO PHILADELPHIA SVP/GM MARC RAYFIELD.

"MICHAEL has been the crown jewel in WPHT's lineup for many years and we respect his decision to shift his focus to afternoons," added RAYFIELD.  "We're thrilled he'll remain an important voice on the station, shaping the political dialogue of PHILADELPHIA for many years to come."
 
"MICHAEL is currently producing seven hours of live radio every day which is a Herculean task," said DIAL GLOBAL SVP/GM News and Talk AMY BOLTON.  "With the vast number of his affiliates airing the midday version of the program, it's natural he should focus all his energy there."

"I have absolutely loved pulling double duty every day for the past few years," said SMERCONISH. "And this election cycle has never left me without strong opinions and lots of airtime to express them. However, the continued growth and focus of the national midday program must become my sole focus, especially as the new House comes into session and a whole new round of fireworks begin. I cannot wait!"

"First and foremost, I wanted to remain on our flagship station WPHT, but to put forth the best program I need to refocus my commitments," added SMERCONISH.  "This move allows me to continue with my other radio and television opportunities, as well as my books and newspaper columns, while at the same time maintaining contact with my loyal fans in PHILADELPHIA who have been with me since the beginning."

"We searched high and low before offering CHRIS mornings at WPHT," said RAYFIELD of STIGALL.  "He is a bona fide star who can tackle a variety of issues that relate to his audience.  Philadelphians have never been shy about sharing their views which will make for some engaging conversations in morning drive."

"We are in an exciting and historic time in our country and I couldn't be more proud to be broadcasting in the birthplace of American democracy on the legendary WPHT," said STIGALL.  "PHILADELPHIA listeners are very discerning, which places a premium on a show that unpacks the news of the day in a thoughtful and entertaining way.  Our job is to address the topics on everyone's minds with input from those in the know and the listeners dealing directly with the issues."

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