On Thursday afternoon, Entercom’s Sports Radio WEEI announced that long-time morning personality John Dennis will step away from his co-hosting role immediately. There had been rumors recently that the morning show grind was taking its toll on Dennis. The reason the station gave was so Dennis could address health concerns.
Along with partner Gerry Callahan, Dennis has been part of the Dennis & Callahan Show since 1997. He made the decision on advice from his doctors that he reduce his workload but will continue in a moderated capacity with the station. The show will move forward with Gerry Callahan and Kirk Minihane, who’s been part of the program since 2013.
Entercom Boston VP/Market Manager Phil Zachary said “John is a Boston radio icon and will remain an important part of the WEEI family going forward. To that end, we have been working with John to define a new role for his considerable talents.”
In his new capacity, Dennis will work with station advertisers, act as an ambassador to sponsors and community organizations, and occasionally host WEEI programs. “Most important to him,” said Zachary, “is that John will continue his compassionate work with our annual Jimmy Fund Radio-Telethon and will appear in our live broadcasts from Fenway Park, August 29 and 30.”
Dennis said he and Zachary had been discussing a new role with WEEI that would allow him to follow his doctor’s orders but remain involved with the radio station. He said he’s excited about (what he calls) “this next chapter of my broadcast incarnation,” stating further “I’m glad, first and foremost, for my initial duties back to host the most favored two days of my entire year, the Jimmy Fund Radio-Telethon.” Dennis went on to say, “Pardon the cliché, but like most morning radio people, I’m really looking forward to finally sleeping in.”
