Months after announcing she’d be leaving WTOP, morning anchor Michelle Basch’s final day on the air was Thursday. She shared her farewells.
What We Know: Basch announced last September her plans to exit morning drive at WTOP after nearly 20 years with the station. She previously worked at 105.9 WMAL and 790 KABC before joining the Washington, D.C. all-news brand in 2006. She took over morning drive alongside John Aaron in 2023. However, she and her husband are relocating to Northeast Pennsylvania. Kristin Diaz will take over the chair vacated by Michelle Basch’s exit.
What They Said: “The first time I was invited to join WTOP, I said no. I was stubbornly loyal to a station that had hired me twice. The second time, I said yes – and found the best place I ever worked. I love how the job is different every day, but the mission is the same: grab attention, be clear, factual, fair, surprising, fun. I love learning. About the world. About myself. WTOP is loaded with talented people. Keep kicking ass and proving that great journalism still exists, and radio still matters. After almost 20 years, it’s time for a new adventure.” -Michelle Basch
What Remains Unclear: How involved Michelle Basch will be with WTOP after leaving morning drive. When she announced her exit, it was revealed that she would continue to serve in a reporting role from her remote location. It is unclear how much work she’ll do in that role or if she’ll still work as a reporter at all.
What It Means: Michelle Basch helmed a variety of dayparts for WTOP during her tenure. Anytime someone with the extended tenure that she held departs, it’s both a sad and joyous occasion. She is leaving on her own terms and beginning a new chapter. Many at the station have spoken glowingly of her since her announcement.
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Garrett Searight is Barrett Media’s News Editor, which includes writing daily news stories, features, and opinion columns. He joined Barrett Media in 2022 after a decade leading several radio brands in several formats, as well as a 5-year stint working in local television. In addition to his work with Barrett Media, he is a radio and TV play-by-play broadcaster. Reach out to him at Garrett@BarrettMedia.com.
