Craig Carton addressed the ripple effects of his highly publicized return to WFAN, offering praise and empathy for Brandon Tierney and Sal Licata while acknowledging the difficult realities of sports radio roster changes.
Appearing on Evan & Tiki, Carton spoke candidly about how his move back into afternoon drive coincided with the end of Tierney and Licata’s program on the station. While Carton was not involved in the decision-making process, he emphasized that the two hosts handled their departures with professionalism and grace.
“Brandon and Sal didn’t do anything wrong,” Carton said. “It’s a tough business we’ve all chosen, but it’s the business we have chosen. And I thought they handled the news as well as anyone in the history of radio’s ever handled it.”
Tierney and Licata were allowed to remain on the air through the conclusion of their run with the station. Carton noted that decision spoke volumes about the trust WFAN management had in the duo.
“I’ve never been in a situation where a radio station or company allowed someone who’s not continuing at that station to still go on the air,” Carton said. “They never would have let those guys go on the air if there wasn’t an amazing amount of trust, right, and professionalism.”
While Carton acknowledged how painful the situation was for those affected, he expressed confidence in both hosts’ futures.
“I also root for them and want the best for them,” said Carton. “I’m sure they will land on their feet and do amazing things in the future, in their careers.”
Carton also addressed some listener reaction to his return, particularly criticism suggesting his arrival directly caused others to lose their jobs. While understanding that perception, he said the circumstances were more complex than they appeared.
“I get it, and I’m sensitive to it, and I just want the best for those two guys,” Carton said. “Unfortunately, that’s not here right now, but you never know what the future holds.”
In addition to Tierney and Licata’s exit, Carton’s return resulted in Evan & Tiki moving from afternoon drive to middays. Carton made a point to acknowledge the sacrifice Evan Roberts and Tiki Barber made in the reshuffling for his eventual return.
“I am very sensitive to the fact that my coming back has not been good for everybody,” Carton said. “I know you guys moving from afternoon drive. Which I know means the world to you guys, to a different day part isn’t what you expected or wanted.”
Despite the changes, Carton expressed confidence in WFAN’s revamped lineup and gratitude toward his colleagues for embracing the transition. “I appreciate the fact that you’re doing it with a smile on your face. You are going to kill it in middays,” he said.
Licata officially signed off from WFAN last week, while Tierney officially signed off BT & Sal in middays earlier Friday.
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