Kathy Romano, the longtime co-host of the “Preston & Steve” show on 93.3 WMMR, has announced her departure from the station after 22 years, following recent cuts by Beasley Media Group, the station’s parent company.
Romano shared her emotional response during Thursday morning’s show, stating, “This was in no way my choice or Preston & Steve’s choice. We are devastated.” She also posted a statement on Instagram to address her exit. In addition to her role on “Preston & Steve,” Romano hosted a weekly show that showcased women in the Philadelphia area.
Beasley Media Group confirmed that they did not renew Romano’s contract and expressed gratitude for her contributions over the years, wishing her well in her next endeavors.
The “Preston & Steve” show, which began in 1998 on a former station and moved to WMMR in 2005, has consistently ranked as Philadelphia’s top-rated morning radio show. Hosts Preston Elliot and Steve Morrison signed contract extensions in 2022, keeping them at WMMR until 2030. Other co-hosts, including Casey Fosbenner, Marisa Magnatta, and Nick McIlwain, will continue to be part of the show.
In recent months, Beasley Media Group has made significant cuts, parting ways with 97.5 The Fanatic afternoon host Tyrone Johnson, as well as hosts Jen Scordo, Pat Egan, and Hunter Brody. The company also laid off longtime host Andre Gardner from 102.9 WMGK in October after 22 years on the air.
The broader radio industry is facing challenges due to declining traditional broadcast advertising, which has shifted toward more targeted digital ads as listeners increasingly prefer streaming formats. Beasley Media Group reported a net revenue loss of approximately $2.7 million in its recent first-quarter earnings call, even as its digital segment showed strong growth.
