David Gaines and Simon Rose have exited KFRU as part of nationwide layoffs at Cumulus Media. Gaines had hosted the station’s morning show after taking over following David Lile’s retirement, while Rose had been with the station for nearly 40 years.
What We Know: Gaines originally joined KFRU before moving into morning drive following the retirement of longtime host David Lile. The Columbia, Missouri, station has now replaced Gaines with Show Me Today, a syndicated program focused exclusively on news and topics from across Missouri. Meanwhile, his departure comes as Cumulus Media eliminates positions at stations across the country as part of broader cost-cutting efforts. Rose hosted the 9-11 AM window on the Columbia news/talk station. He also worked an airshift on a music station in the cluster, 102.3 BXR.
What They Said: “As of this week, I’m no longer with Columbia’s heritage radio station KFRU. Corporate downsizing, the elimination of Cumulus Media positions nationwide, hit our market this week. That’s the nature of this business … I’ve loved my job, and I already miss it. But I know another door will open. Thanks to those who have already reached out.” -David Gaines
What Remains Unclear: It remains unclear whether KFRU plans to make a permanent change to its morning programming or if Show Me Today will remain in the time slot long-term. It is also unclear what the station is airing in the midday timeslot in Rose’s stead.
What It Means: Gaines and Rose’s exit marks another change for a heritage Missouri radio station that has leaned on local programming in its morning hours. However, the addition of Show Me Today gives KFRU a statewide-focused alternative while the company works through its latest round of reductions.
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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.