The number one sports radio station in America has been facing some tough issues lately, and now has some equally tough decisions to make. This soon-to-be Entercom New York City station was originally dealing only with the resignation of ratings superstar, afternoon host Mike Francesa, whose contract is up at the end of the year. Now, its ten-year old morning show is broken, with the resignation of Craig Carton, after he was arrested for allegedly being part of a Ponzi scheme to help pay off millions in gambling debts.
Both Francessa (#1 in 2016) and Boomer and Carton (#2 in 2016) have consistently been the top ranked local sports talkers in America on Radio Ink’s annual list. There are already rumors swirling that Francesa may consider staying on with the station now that the morning show is in turmoil. If WFAN cannot fill those two slots with equally popular hosts the station may face serious financial consequences. According to BIA, WFAN was the 4th highest billing radio station in America, raking in over $46 million.
Here’s Carton’s resignation statement and how CBS Radio responded.
Statement from Craig Carton: “Unfortunately, the unfounded legal issues currently plaguing me will only be a distraction to everyone at WFAN and the show I helped build. With that in mind, I have submitted my resignation to the station and they accepted. I am sad to see this chapter of my life close but know that it will allow me to focus on my family, my well-being and clearing my name, while giving the show the best opportunity to succeed without further disruption. I’ve always felt a personal connection to our listeners and want to thank them for making me a part of their daily routine. I hope they can respect the fact that as much as I want to talk about the allegations against me I can’t at this time. There will come a time when I will be able to speak directly about the case and I hope our listeners will be there. From the bottom of my heart, I’d like to thank my family, friends, listeners and especially the executives at WFAN and CBS Radio for their continued understanding and for giving me the most amazing platform to do what I love to do the most, besides being with my family.”
Following the resignation, CBS Radio sent out the following statement:
“WFAN has accepted Craig Carton’s resignation. We appreciate all of his contributions over the last decade and wish him and his family well during this next phase. We are especially grateful to our dedicated employees, sponsors and listeners for their continued support of THE FAN. The search for a replacement co-host for the morning show will begin immediately.”
