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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I think it is a disgrace and a disservice to all of KFRU listeners to take this action on such an important longstanding and important news relaying station. It covered many important info such as road info with MODOT especially with what is going on now and conservation info and city info with the police,fire,school, and statewide info. also think the 2 amendments would not have passed without all the effort Kfru put into keeping everyone up to date on all aspects of these amendments by bringing in all the people this affected. Not only have we lost the ability to listen but we are also losing the ability to read the news, Newspapers are also going by the wayside. Not everyone has the stupid type of phones that are being used for everything under the sun. People are losing the ability to talk to each other face to face. It is all such a shame!