California Radio Station's Mass Layoffs Reflect a Changing Broadcast Industry

Video killed the radio star, but it appears that broadcast automation may be throwing more dirt on the grave. For decades, local DJs have done more than just introduce songs. They’ve helped listeners discover new music and cultivated fan bases that turned in as much for the DJ as they did for the songs that they were playing. However, the radio industry has been struggling in recent years, and one of the most historic classic rock radio stations in the country is among the latest stations to fall.

California’s KCAL-FM 96.7 recently laid off its entire on-air staff as management made the transition to a fully automated, music-only format. The move shocked longtime employees and listeners alike, while also highlighting the growing economic pressures facing local radio stations across the country.

A 61-Year Era Came to an End

The move was announced on August 1, 2026, when KCAL-FM officially made the switch to a fully automated, music-only format, eliminating the need for on-air personalities. The station announced the change on social media by telling listeners it was "turning the page" after more than six decades of live programming in Southern California's Inland Empire. Soon afterward, several on-air personalities confirmed they had been dismissed, bringing an end to a station that had become known as much for its local personalities as its music.

While many local radio stations have been struggling in the face of the rising popularity of music streaming platforms, the demise of KCAL-FM came as a shock, primarily because of the station’s rich history. The decision marked one of the most sweeping staffing changes at a local radio station in recent years.

Veteran Hosts Shared Their Disappointment

Many of the station’s longtime personalities shared their raw, emotional reactions to the news. Evening host John DeSantis wrote on Facebook, "To say this is shocking is an understatement." He thanked listeners for allowing him to be part of the KCAL family and described working at the station as "a radio dream come true."

Daryl Norsell, the afternoon host who had spent more than 40 years with the station, also shared a statement after learning that his lengthy career at KCAL-FM had come to an unexpected close. Norsell, who had spent the last 36 years as the station’s afternoon host, said, “My four hours in the studio were always my favorite part of my day. My escape from whatever else was going on to be with my friends. I started in radio when I was just 18 and at KCAL when I was 20 years old, and I've literally grown up and spent my entire adult life on the air with you playing music that I love and sharing stories and experiences.”

Management Says the Change Was Financial

The management at KCAL-FM 96.7 said the move had nothing to do with the quality of its programming, citing the same financial pressures that are facing local stations around the country.

According to Anaheim Broadcasting Corporation, the move to an automated format is intended to provide listeners with uninterrupted classic rock while creating a more financially sustainable business model. Company executives indicated the station had struggled to remain profitable under its traditional format as competition for advertising revenue intensified.

Jeff Parke, the former general manager for the station, was less surprised by the news, citing the hardships that stations are facing. "The reality is that this is happening everywhere in radio," Parke said, adding that while he was disappointed by the layoffs, they reflect broader changes affecting the industry.

Radio Continues to Face New Competition

In the 1980s, MTV, the first all-music TV station, had a significant impact on radio. Today, there are even more sources of strain for radio stations. Streaming platforms, podcasts, satellite radio, and personalized music services have dramatically altered listening habits over the past decade. Consumers now have access to nearly unlimited entertainment choices, making it increasingly difficult for local broadcasters to retain audiences while competing for advertising dollars.

The rise of nationwide radio platforms, many of which also utilize apps, has also made things more difficult. For example, stations that are part of the iHeartRadio Group can tap into syndicated programming to reduce costs, leaving independent stations struggling to keep up.

Despite the industry's challenges, many broadcasting experts believe local radio still has an important role to play. Stations that emphasize local news, weather, sports, and community engagement continue to attract loyal audiences in many markets. Still, the loss of KCAL-FM marks another blow to the radio industry.

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