Morning host Kelly Golden has exited iHeartMedia’s 94.3 WSC (WSCC-FM) in Charleston. Her departure marks the end of a two-decade run at the Conservative Talk outlet. Her exit also comes as part of a broader budget reduction inside the company.
Golden, who began her career at 1250 WTMA in Charleston before stops at WDBO in Orlando and eventually WSCC, had become one of the station’s most prominent personalities.
For years, she co-hosted mornings with Michael “Blaze” DeLaere, who continues to handle middays at Classic Rock Q104.5 in Charleston. Her blend of local coverage, conservative commentary, and community engagement helped establish 94.3 WSC as a consistent presence in the Lowcountry talk landscape.
In a statement shared after her exit, Golden acknowledged the growing frequency of layoffs across the media industry. She noted that, despite nearly 30 years in broadcast news and talk, this was the first time she had been affected by a workforce reduction. Still, she expressed gratitude for her two decades with the station.
“Daily ‘layoff’ headlines continue across our country. I am not immune to becoming part of one, especially in an industry where layoffs are just ‘a part of the job,’” she wrote. “I can proudly say, this is my first, in a near 30-year career as a News/Talk broadcaster. iHeartMedia made the last 20 years of my on-air career better than I, or anyone, could imagine. I am incredibly thankful for the opportunity.”
Golden added that she plans to take a short break before considering her next professional steps. Signaling that she has no plans to leave the industry behind.
“After a well-earned respite, new chapters will be written. Trust that this ‘Golden Eagle’ will continue to soar,” she said, thanking listeners, colleagues, and the broader community for their support.
She closed her message by noting her appreciation for the role listeners have played throughout her career. “I can’t wait to share the ways my life’s work has shaped me into who I am today, and where I’ll be in the future. Stay tuned! I appreciate all of you.”
In place of Golden, WSC has begun simulcasting South Carolina’s Morning News, the statewide news block hosted by Gary David.
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Kelly, aside from the reality that the SUCCESS of the Kelly Golfer Show with “MB” was a personality and a frequent opinion mismatch” essentially ruined the on-air legacy that you had established with the “Soul of Charleston”.
Are there any non-IHeart owned radio Stations with similar coverage that could be responsive to an opportunity to “capture” your exceptional talents on mutually acceptable terms?
If not… how about a progression to one of Charleston’s Network owned TV Stations?
I wish you northing but SYCCESS in your future endeavors!!
I will miss Kelly and Michael in the morning. This was a terrible decision.
My weekday mornings have been turned upside down. Sadness has set in. Charleston is not the same anymore without your show. But you have shown me how strong willed and self motivated you really are. So keep on keeping on. New beginnings for you and Blaze.
God bless you both