Reports indicate that former WFAN morning host Craig Carton is expected to return to the station in January, marking what would be his third tenure with the New York sports radio powerhouse. For WFAN hosts Brandon Tierney and Sal Licata, reports say their program will be removed as part of Carton’s return to the radio station.
The news surfaced during Tuesday’s BT & Sal show, where hosts Brandon Tierney and Sal Licata did not address the speculation during yesterday’s program. Wednesday, the duo opened their program addressing the reports while emphasizing professionalism amid ongoing negotiations.
“We have to acknowledge and start the show. We’ve read what’s going on. We’ve been in the loop,” Licata said. “This is not a surprise. You know, dating back months, as I joked about it, that Craig would come back was always inevitable. That said, nothing is official. I’m grateful I have the opportunity to do the show with you every day, and we’ll continue to do that as long as we have that opportunity.”
Tierney echoed the sentiment, explaining the cautious approach both he and Licata have took while reports developed.
“Yesterday was a tough spot. I think a lot of people want to know why we didn’t get into it on the air as things were breaking in real time. Because we’re being professionals. That’s the short answer. I spoke to an executive this morning, and I know the [Carton’s] contract is not signed. I know that, but I also know that Craig will be coming back. So we’re not trying to fool anybody,” said Tierney.
Carton, who originally co-hosted the Boomer & Carton show, left WFAN origianlly following legal issues, including a securities fraud conviction. Carton returned to WFAN in 2021, quickly regaining a following with his outspoken style and loyal fan base.
His anticipated third return comes amid a reshuffling of the station’s programming lineup and reflects WFAN’s continued interest in leveraging Carton’s notoriety and audience draw.
Tierney also stressed that the current program with Licata is far from concluding, emphasizing stability for listeners despite the impending changes.
“I do think it’s important to stress before we get into the actual show. There will be a day where we’ll do this more extensively. For sure, this is not our last show. We could promise you this. And as long as we’re here, we’re gonna do what we do, which should, which is what we think a pretty damn show.”
Official details, including the structure of Carton’s return and potential co-hosting arrangements, remain under negotiation and have not been released.
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