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Midnight madness: Overnights on WGN take a sharp Leff turn
Posted in Robert Feder | Chicago Media blog by Robert Feder on Dec 6, 2011 at 12:00am
Bill Leff
At this rate, WGN-AM (720) might actually start attracting listeners again. But let’s not get ahead of ourselves.
On the heels of hiring veteran Chicago radio morning star Jonathon Brandmeier to replace Greg Jarrett, the Tribune Co.-owned news/talk station Monday confirmed the promotion of weekend and fill-in host Bill Leff as full-time overnight personality.
Starting next week, the versatile actor, comedian and broadcaster will succeed husband-and-wife hosts Steve King and Johnnie Putman, who are signing off Friday after a yeoman 26-year run. Leff will expand the show by 30 minutes, airing from midnight to 5:30am weekdays.
Considering the upheaval that’s rocked every other time period on WGN in recent years, overnights had been the station’s one bastion of stability. Few personalities in Chicago radio history can match King and Putman’s longevity in one time slot on the same frequency.
“Steve and Johnnie have been an integral part of WGN Radio’s rich history and trusted friends and voices to thousands of listeners over the years,” general manager Tom Langmyer said in a press release. “We’re excited that Bill Leff will be joining the station full-time to carry on Steve & Johnnie’s tradition of live and local overnight talk.”
For the 48-year-old Chicago native and Columbia College graduate, it’s the high point of a radio odyssey that included a popular partnership with Wendy Snyder at the Loop and the former Q101, as well as an afternoon stint with Roe Conn on news/talk WLS-AM (890). This week Leff is filling in as WGN morning host, keeping the seat warm for Brandmeier’s debut Friday.
“I couldn't possibly be more excited,” Leff told me Monday. “From the time I got into radio, my goal was to be here, on WGN. And now that I've achieved that goal, I'll probably slack off quite a bit.
“I have nothing but respect for Steve and Johnnie, who I’ve listened to for years, and marveled at their ability to make the audience their friend. WGN is absolutely the place to be right now. Jonathon Brandmeier is the most gifted person I've ever heard on the radio. Garry Meier is the reason I pursued radio in the first place. And I learn from John Williams every time I hear him. Between them and the amazing news staff and sports team, I’m privileged to be a part of it. . . . At least that's what I'm telling them.”
So what does Leff have planned for his new overnight show? “It will be a unique blend of circus acts, live executions, stare contests, fondue recipes, and vacuuming,” he said. “Some of it will be in Dutch.”
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12/06/2011
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I did 12-5:30a solo 5 days a week in my 20s - it gets to be a grind - he's 48?!
2 hosts can do it better than 1 no matter how old they are - this will be a short-lived venture for Bill.
By Dead Wax Records (not verified) on 12/06/2011 at 12:30 am
Hey, Bill mentioned everyone but Mike McConnell. Just an educated guess, but Bill will do overnights for maybe a year and then WGN will buy out the remainder of McConnell's ridiculous 5 year gift deal given to him by his old friend Randy, "I look good in yellow, right" Michaels. At which point Nick Digilio will be overlooked yet one more time so the two fake name radio tandem of John St. Augustine and Christopher Michaels can begin their AM 720 partnership! Hey, I thought Chicagoland Radio and Media said Bill Leff would only be doing a half hour shift?
By Overnight Carousal (not verified) on 12/06/2011 at 12:39 am
Who wants to be the first one to photoshop the Leff images...that is just beging for it.
Love Leff!
By Daryl (not verified) on 12/06/2011 at 12:39 am
I just hope the team of Tom L. and Bill W. will come to their senses and recognize the valuable, popular and funny Nick DiGilio for the radio pro that he is. More Nick - Less McConnell...
By Bob Rutkas (not verified) on 12/06/2011 at 2:17 am
About time. When they ran off Chicago Ed, I wondered why. Their insipid intro song has long ceased to be relevant. Now new musicians can strp up to the mic and not have to be someone who was popular before FM radion arrived. No tears here
By Mikey72 (not verified) on 12/06/2011 at 4:01 am
Goodbye, Steve & Johnnie. You will not be missed. Maybe I'll start listening to WGN during my shift again.
By Anony Mouse (not verified) on 12/06/2011 at 4:44 am
Steve King (Kingsmill) and Johnnie Putnam are extraordinarily nice people who long ago lost their
sustained zing as overnight "infotainers."
Their tendency to seize a niched item and try to sell it to their
audience as one of universal appeal
began costing them droves of listeners years ago.
Their eternal search for a Gluten-free computer became self-mocking - or was it computer-free Gluten?
Still, it's sad to see them go, in much the same way it would be sad to see Grade-Z talent Ryan Baker
depart town.
As for Bill Leff, he is a headphone vagabond who will not last as an overnight host at WGN
unless station bosses consider their wee-hours franchise in hopeless disrepair.
As an "infotainer," he is about as
impacting as when John Davidson used to fill in for Johnny Carson
on "The Tonight Show" and has the
chicken tracks on his radio resume
to prove it.
Over/under on his last day as overnight host at 'GN: March 17, 2013.
Wisest thing Tom Langmeyer did was
keep talent-free Nick DiGilio (spl?) away from anything significant. As Kup would say,
"Da kid's just not, ah, ready for
da big time right now."
Lost in the Federian shuffle was Crain's news of more layoffs at
the oxygen-deprived Sun-Times. That is, more layoffs of valuable front-line journalists while a bizarre cadre of mid- and upper-level managers continue to
cash paychecks.
Rogue investors such as Rocky Wirtz, Kevin Flynn, the Parillo twins and others simply must not
care about their investment. What
other explanation can their be for
their benign indifference to a
pastel management that came in with
no plan two years ago other than
to squeeze the orange and have executed it quite nicely with no
investor oversight?
Maybe Steve and Johnnie can turn up
as the new CEO and publisher of the Sun-Times. It certainly would be an upgrade.
By Tony Pearson (not verified) on 12/06/2011 at 4:52 am
It's naysayers like Mr. Mouse and Mr. Pearson who take the joy out of media watching in Chicago.
My points:
1) Steve and Johnnie are human beings, too, and deserve a little recognition for what they've accomplished;
2) I have found Bill Leff to be somewhat amusing during his assorted stops on the Chicagoland radio dial. Quip-for-quip, I would certainly put him up against such more established funnymen as Dick Biondi, Garry Mayer and Bruce "Chad Chitchet" Wolff;
3) "Federian" is not a word. I assume you are some sort of self-styled funnyman - I would guess a Steve Cochran dead-mackerel type - trying to call Mr. Feder to task for
electing to exclude news of some sort
of new staff cutback at the Sun-Times. I say play fair and respect Robert - he's the best!; and,
4) The slaps at the Sun-Times are either well-founded or they're not. If the investors were THAT worried about their money, they long ago would have called in forensic accountants to reconcile the deals with the Tribune to print and distribute the paper. They didn't, so
clearly, there must be an overriding reason they are standing by doing nothing while the paper's daily circulation nears 200,000 (a figure more suitable for Cleveland or Milwaukee) and their ad revenues dip
below the Halbreich line. I think the
most striking thing about the Sun-Times right now is the growing gap between the near-excellence of the Tribune's Sports Section - except for the moribund Phil Hersh - and the complete irrelevance of the Sun-Times - except for the hat-for-all-seasons outdoors writer Dale Bowman.
Thank you.
By Angela Nelson (not verified) on 12/06/2011 at 5:10 am
Of course S&J are human beings, but that doesn't mean they did sit on their perch long, long, long after they should have bowed out gracefully. They've been on a downward spiral for years now, and their show had become painful and utterly unlistenable. I'm terribly sorry that "media watching" only allows for positive comments and that everyone must agree on everything. You'll have to excuse me, I need to paint my walls beige as eggshell was too interesting.
By Anony Mouse (not verified) on 12/06/2011 at 5:16 am
Mr. Mouse, you could suck the love
and joy out of a Mother Teresa
Tribute!
I can't believe the blatant negativity when we're talking about
such nice people as Steve and Johnnie and the like.
Maybe you need a class in happiness
encouragement!
By Angela Nelson (not verified) on 12/06/2011 at 6:03 am
I could not agree more with Mr. Pearson. How cold Rob Feder NOT report on the ongoing at the Sun Times. Mr. Feder has a case of selective reporting.
As for the "laugh challenged" Bill Leff, may WGN management run replays of the old Irv Kupcinet-Jack Brickhouse Bear games until some real talent comes along.
I must say that the axing of the overnight pair was about 23 years too late.
Bring back Chicago Ed replays. "For all of you stewardesses out there, I will be off of work at 5:30."
By Luker (not verified) on 12/06/2011 at 6:42 am
Is Milt Rosenberg next to go? God I hope so....what value does he add to the station?
I would listen later at night to WGN if Milt wasn't on. He must be their major stockholder to keep that night job.
By SallyinChicago (not verified) on 12/06/2011 at 6:49 am
If WGN had enough sense they'd bring in the best female voice in Chicago radio, Wendy Snyder, to team up again with Leff. As Kup would say to Jack Brickhouse, "dat's right, Jack".
By curbstone cutup (not verified) on 12/06/2011 at 7:12 am
Angela Nelson - by the way, I am one of S & J's neighbors; they are not as nice and gracious as you may think. But of course, you know for sure, right? But you criticize someone who doesn't agree with you, right? Yea, I wish them the best but their schtick was dreadful for years.
By Anonymous (not verified) on 12/06/2011 at 7:36 am
Where and what will Nick DiGilio be doing?
By P.G. Crawford (not verified) on 12/06/2011 at 7:53 am
Congrats to Bill Leff. I worked with Bill at Q101 and he is one of the nicest and most genuine people in the business. Always positive, willing to help out, and of course, funny as hell. Chalk one up for the good guys!
By Freddy (not verified) on 12/06/2011 at 7:55 am
Rob - PLEASE give us some kind of insider info as to why Nick was passed over in favor of Bill!
And am I correct in assuming that,even as the Sun-Times continues to hemmorhage cash and quaity workers, Sneed and Roeper still have their job security? What's the "scoopsville" behind all that?
By ChiTownGal (not verified) on 12/06/2011 at 8:07 am
wonderful news !...no more Fran Tate or the effen Woodstock choir polluting the airwaves !
By Mike C. (not verified) on 12/06/2011 at 8:09 am
I have to chuckle every time Steve and Johnnie critics describe them as "unlistenable." Then they list many smarmy reasons why they feel this way. Obviously they are listening. I have no opinion yet regarding Bill Leff's talents or non-talent as a radio personality. But he is off to a poor start by allowing himself to be photographed behind the microphone wearing a baseball cap. Egads! How 20 years ago.
By The Commander (not verified) on 12/06/2011 at 8:17 am
Commander, Leff ALWAYS wears a hat. It's radio, who cares what he's wearing.
Surprised no one has picked up on the funniest quote in the entire interview, "Garry Meier is the reason I pursued radio in the first place."
Really Bill? If Garry's the reason, then you should just pair up with someone more talented than you and coast.... Haven't seen Mr. Meier's ratings shooting up in the afternoons, a slot dominated by his old partner Roe Conn at WLS-AM
By Radiohead (not verified) on 12/06/2011 at 8:28 am
Um Angela, I kinda thought your comment was a joke when I read "Chad Chitchet" instead of "Chet Chitchat" - you really are a Steve & Johnny fan aren't you? They do seem nice (though I believe their neighbor's comment) but nice is not interesting nor entertaining. Re Bill Leff, he seems nice too - and a bit more entertaining, I hope he does well. Personally, I'd like to see Noonan in the weekday overnight spot - or Noonan w/Garry Meier (that's how his last name is spelled Angela). All said, I still miss that whack-job from up the dial, Art Bell. All-night radio will never be the same without him.
By db (not verified) on 12/06/2011 at 8:38 am
Commander, that's why we listened: how could this stuff still be on major market air waves, even after midnight? Best wishes, S & J, we certainly knew ye. To those clamoring for more Nick D - have you listened to his show? The repetition, excessive giggling, the halting delivery? And this said while knowing he's a wonderful guy. Finally, a plaintive cry for the incomparable lise d, whose conspicuous absence has diminished the past days' discussions.
By Mark Doogan (not verified) on 12/06/2011 at 8:40 am
Congrats to Bill Leff - I really enjoy listening to him.
By Sue (not verified) on 12/06/2011 at 8:42 am
S & J are so full of themselves!!! Even as they leave they made it sound like it was managements fault or that they were planning this all along...in their hey day they were fresh and fun. The show had become dull and way too routine. Even when they had Woodstock choir or artists in the studio they never stopped yapping about when they first met them etc
and let them play. Good bye to guitars digital camers radio road tests, consumer reports and the god awful website wed nites. S&J admit it you were let go, get some
much needed sleep you have been in la la land far too long! Welcome Bill Leff and good luck!
By Anonymous (not verified) on 12/06/2011 at 8:53 am
Bill Leff is a (bad) joke!
Nick DiGilio deserves this spot. I agree with previous posters that overnights needs a team to stay fresh. Nick and his old partner Garry Lee Wright would have been the perfect fit.
What I'll miss most about Steve and Johnnie is the live music in the studio.
By Ken (not verified) on 12/06/2011 at 8:58 am
Steve and Johnnie are affable hosts, but the problem was, they didn't put the needs of their listeners over their own, so the show was always about music, and music from 50-60 years ago at that. Even when the show was supposed to be about movies or computers, Steve King would go on and on about MUSIC. I would turn the show on and immediately turn it off.
I'm glad Bill is taking over. He's genial, seems like a nice guy, and very funny. And I'm very, very thankful that the self-styled "movie critic" Nick DiGilio isn't getting the slot--I'd have to throw my radio in the trash.
By Anonymous (not verified) on 12/06/2011 at 9:00 am
I see that a couple of responders went to college and took a creative writing course. Wow boys and girls!
I'll find something other than WGN to listen to at nights. I'm not interested in what comes next.
By Ed (not verified) on 12/06/2011 at 9:04 am
To "db": This is what I mean about
all the naysayers ruining media
watching in Chicago. Why can't we be positive about change? Change is good. Change is inevitable. Who moved my cheese?
And, as far as my spelling, more naysaying! So I misspelled "Meyer" as
"Mayer"! Send me to Stateville! Make me read the Sun-Times! Send me on a
Gacy bone dig!
Final note re "Anonymous": What did
your neighbors "Steve and Johnnie"
do to you that was so reprehensible?
Leave CDs on their shows on your doorstep. If you're brave enough to make the claim, pinpoint the blame,
Mr. Cowardly A-non.
Speaking of spelling, where did this
"Luker" go to school---Northwestern?
By Angela Nelson (not verified) on 12/06/2011 at 9:16 am
Look, WGN made the greatest move of
all a few years back when it
guillotined life-achievement lowest common denominator Steve Cochran. Since his departure, it's been all
"Rebuild Hiroshima" at the station. The minute that obese a-- clown waddled through the portals of T-Tower, it was the second coming of the Blizzard of '79. Talk about a traffic stopper. He gives talent-free bums a bad name. What's he doing now - buying air time at WIND or puting the big hurt on The Old Country Buffet desert line? He makes Steve and Johnny look like Huntley and Brinkley! I keep hearing he's headed for the Seniors Sumo Tour out of Osaka. Talk about a walking add for Weight Watchers. He's probably the only radio guy in town who's weight exceeds his station's frequency. So leave Bill Leff alone --- at least he is only
unobstrusively pedestrian. Not like
that fat sumolian Cochran. I mean,
there is a one-man highway blockade. Who listens to his show --- other fat guys? How could he possibly have stayed in town. That's why we need
even more strident media writing in this market. That Cochran --- I mean, one pair of pants to a man.
By Thad Orrin (not verified) on 12/06/2011 at 9:31 am
Radiohead, Bill Leff always wears a baseball cap, at 48, in 2011? God help the man.
By The Commander (not verified) on 12/06/2011 at 9:41 am
won't miss that obnoxious, self-indulgent opening theme song either...not to mention Bob Young in general....yawnnnnnn !
By Mike C. (not verified) on 12/06/2011 at 9:43 am
Did Gracie27Doyle pass the citizenship exam yet? Or still stumbling over the language part? Tries to make a point about creative writing and the point is INDECIPHERABLE! Where'd she go to school --- Grinnell?
By Tony Pearson (not verified) on 12/06/2011 at 9:57 am
God help us...after reading today's posts I'm having fantasies of springing Katie Melissa Forman Knott from whatever institution she's confined to this week. Much more readable and funnier.
My vote for WGN overnights: bring back The "All Night (your company name here) Showcase." Surely WGN can find someone with a melodic baritone to dust off and update the format. Heck, shoot Nicky D up with testosterone and let him try out.
By James Dvorak (not verified) on 12/06/2011 at 9:58 am
Well done, Robert Feder. This column on Leff and the one on Steve Dahl and Kevin Matthews sure did rile up the slow kids in the 'special' class down the hall. I've never seen this many wild-eyed comments since they put LSD in the punch bowl at the 1969 Tribune Christmas Party. Keep up the great work. Dave Condon's column the next day was one for the ages.
By Jake Ryan (not verified) on 12/06/2011 at 10:19 am
This is good news! I tried to listen to Steve and Joanie but it was horrible. Based on my brief sample (10-20 times at 10 minute increments), I was left with the impression that S&J were addressing morons based on the subject matter and the inflection of their voices. I also tried to listen to the talent known as Nick D; good grief he comes across as a whining teenage boy. I turned him off quickly. I hope Bill Leff succeeds because I find myself awake at night on occasion and the only other choice is Les Grobstien which is not really a choice. And to my dear friend Angela Nelson, I hope you find satisfaction in knowing that your support is appreciated by S&J because they care about you too.
By Joe (not verified) on 12/06/2011 at 11:32 am
Milt Rosenberg is a gem. If anything, his topics and guests are likely too cerebral for the average listener. I get that. he may be a better fit on WBEZ. However, it is so refereshing to listen to such intelligent discussion on important, yet many times overlooked subjects. Milt's time slot is brutal. His show is preempted so much due to Cubs, Hawks, and other sporting events that it's a treat just to catch his show.
By SWSIDE (not verified) on 12/06/2011 at 12:41 pm
I don't understand the fascination with the "talents" of Nick DiGilio. As a critic, he seems to hate everything that he reviews. The rest of his show is "discussing" the various "lists" that he manages to dig up for his show each week. If he had to do that on a daily basis, he would be rendered silent by Tuesday!! After those two "amazing talents", all he has left is giving out the address info for his Tweeter, Facebook, e-mail, and what seems like an endless array of other contact venues. Many times more than once!! Oh yeah, when all of those duties are taken care of, he manages a few commercials. Giving him a five day a week show at Midnight would eventually put any shift workers as well as insomiacs to sleep. Thank you WGN for not putting us, the listeners, through that.
KenP.
By KenP. (not verified) on 12/06/2011 at 1:16 pm
When I think of Nick D., what I remember most is his critique of the first Sex and the City movie. He was critiquing it on John Williams' then Saturday morning show. John had to shut him up. Nick calls himself a movie critic. NOT.
And I found this comment about Steve & Johnnie on RadioRatingz.com. My thoughts exactly:
"Steve constantly interrupts his guests, acts like he knows it all and has, to me, become irritating. His ego grows as he gets older for some reason."
A couple times lately I e-mailed Steve, "QUIT INTERRUPTING." I did shout. He and Johnnie didn't listen to criticism. They should have.
By Mary D. (not verified) on 12/06/2011 at 2:48 pm
Angela Nelson - you really have a stupid comment for any blogger you don't agree with. No matter what anyone says, you have a really dumb comeback. Actually, I am one of their nearest neighbors and a lot of us can't stand what preferential treatment they get from our city over what we get. Because they are on radio, puuleese. Like I said I wish them well, especially on their Nashville TV show but for a neighbor, not so much. But I will miss their car shows, Wednesday computer show and Gino Salomone and even Fran Tate.
By Anonymous (not verified) on 12/06/2011 at 2:50 pm
Mr. Pearson doesn't like S&J, calls Leff a "headphone vagabond" and calls Nick D. "talent-free".
I'm curious, Mr. Pearson - who DO you like? Is there anyone you'd support to take over the WGN overnight shift? What kind of radio do you like, in general? Which personalities do you think are talented?
By Anonymous (not verified) on 12/06/2011 at 3:07 pm
Back in the 90's S&J were really kinda cool. They were like the fun aunt & uncle who kept up with "pop culture" and could discuss TV, movies and superhero comics with the young folks at the family gatherings.
But something happened over the last decade or so. Maybe it's just the inevitable result of growing older, but of late they've come across as the obnoxious aunt & uncle that you HAD to invite to your wedding, knowing full well that the festivities would grind to a halt as soon as they entered the room (in matching tuxedoes, how clever!), stormed the bandstand or DJ booth, railed on and on about how these young whippersnappers know nothing about GOOD MUSIC (mainly anything produced since 1968 or so), demanding to hear some obscure R&B ballad from 1955, and making the rounds of the guest tables, lamenting that life lost all meaning for them the day Les Paul died.
In other words, you two jumped the shark a long time ago...hasta la vista!
By Night Owl (not verified) on 12/06/2011 at 3:42 pm
Bill Leff has quickly become my favorite WGN fill-in, but I truly believe that if he does weekday overnight solo, he'll probably fail and/or destroy his family life. And it baffles me that WGN management doesn't recognize how successful S & J have been with so little help! The overnight shift needs to be filled by a TEAM of people (following the successful example of Sportsnight) who keep each other at their best. Hopefully, they don't have kids at home, because they may never see them. The host team needs an extra person, in addition to the producer, to help with booking a variety of guests & helping guests behind-the-scenes (like escorting them from the parking lot -- currently, S & J's excellent producer must leave his post to do this himself!). I like Nick D, but he needs a partner like Garry Lee Wright to keep him at his best over multiple days. I wouldn't mind having Paula Cooper promoted to co-host, if they bring in someone else, like Christopher Michael, to cover the news. Noonan's overnight producer, Cody, would also make a good co-host, skewing toward the younger demographic.
By 14-year WGN Listener (not verified) on 12/06/2011 at 4:26 pm
The WGN implosion continues!!
By Anonymous (not verified) on 12/06/2011 at 4:29 pm
Reasons for rejoicing at Christmas:
No more crappy music, no more guitars, no more preaching from a know-it-all, no more annoying, syrupy feigned innocence, no more entire, self-serving segments about gluten-free life.
That show became so horribly painful that I stopped listening over a year ago.
Once in a while I tuned in to see if they were gone yet and immediately had to turn the radio off.
REJOICE!
By Anonymous (not verified) on 12/06/2011 at 5:29 pm
@Mike C is absolutely right. The sports program with Noonan is horrible. When he first started it was a welcome break but can he please stop pretending hes another person and start talking for 2. OMG he's getting as bad as Cochran with the forced jokes. Listen up Brian or you'll go by the way of S & J. Nick's on enough filling in. He's just too juvenile. I've never heard J.B.so here's hoping he can bring it.
By Anonymous (not verified) on 12/06/2011 at 7:01 pm
Who is next Milt Rosenberg or John Williams
By Anonymous (not verified) on 12/06/2011 at 8:27 pm
I wish Steve & Johnnie would stop pretending that this was their idea to leave. Why not tell the truth to your loyal listeners? Come on now, do they really think anyone is buying it!! No more computer & car talk. No more boring music guests that no one cares about. Bring on Bill Leff and please give Nick more hours!
By June (not verified) on 12/06/2011 at 8:27 pm
Just one comment.......more Nick!
By Anonymous (not verified) on 12/06/2011 at 8:27 pm
True story, boys and girls! A few weeks back I happened upon an unintentionally priceless Steve and Johnnie segment. Johnnie was going on and on in amazement about a story describing many vintage 1950's American cars stuck and still being used in Cuba. "How did they all get there? Is that where all old cars go to die? There are so many if them!" Her husband had no clue, either. Well, listeners immediately started calling in and explaining that no, they don't go there to die. They're still there because of the Kennedy led U.S. embargo on Castro's communist control of Cuba since 1962. Basic high school history for anybody here, right? "Well, that's just a part of history I must have missed- I didn't know about that part".
Incredible! This from a woman who's worked in the media for what, 30+ years? A woman who can tell you all about the finalists on Dancing With the Stars, who to vote for on American Idol, plots for all tv crime series, etc. It was a very real, unintentioanally funny and revealing moment. What a loopy dingbat!
By Truthscreamer (not verified) on 12/06/2011 at 9:24 pm
"Bring back Chicago Ed replays". Thanks for the comment LUKER, I miss him, too. Bravo Steve and Johnnie for a good, long run. Congratulations to Bill Leff. The intensity of the comments point out how important the overnight program is to it's listeners. Ed knew this, and that's why people remember him with fondness.
By Hal Ross (not verified) on 12/06/2011 at 9:28 pm
Poor Chicago Ed. Thank goodness he had friends who helped pay his medical bills towards the end. That will be Bill Leff after a few years of all nighters on 720.
By LenaWaybak (not verified) on 12/06/2011 at 11:27 pm
gn should put the pinker and noonan together
By Anonymous (not verified) on 12/07/2011 at 2:10 am
Truthscreamer - you are so right! I agree with the Anonymous about Noonan and the Pinker. They both are really funny and would work great with each other.
By Anonymous (not verified) on 12/07/2011 at 5:37 am
I am guessing by all the comments here that everyone is in the radio business and has hosted a show at some point-which gives them the insiders view of what is or is not "good radio"- the dismantling of Leff from the hat comments to the life span of his show- the chopping block treatment of S&J the snide mentions of St.Augustine and Michaels and the overall vivisection of WGN fascinates me. Radio is a strange-tough business that allows for little talent movement-years of filling in on WGN is why Leff was offered the slot- its up to him to make it work and he's earned that chance. S&J may not be everyones taste-but they were paid to do what they love to do-like it or not for a very long time. Good for them. St.Augustine-is a Chicago guy-and has garned a great response from listeners and mgmt- and I dont care if its his real name or not-part of radio is entertainment-every heard of Benjamin Kublesky?..oh yea..Jack Benny. Christopher Michaels is a pro on every level-40 years earning a living in radio- sounds like alot of sour grapes here- its just radio.
By Anonymous (not verified) on 12/07/2011 at 8:26 am
Nothing lasts forever, and when Milt Rosenberg leaves us it will be a huge loss for Chicago and our Nations radio listeners. He interviews guests in hour long segments, not one of these 10 minute hit and runs like on TV where it is just a promo for their movie or book. As for Nick D. he does review movies, shows, stars. Not like that clown on 'GN TV who likes everything except Mel Gibson. Hurray for 'GN radio, they give us real and intelligent hosts, not slugs.
By Jake Ryan (not verified) on 12/07/2011 at 10:22 am
Jonathan ... Mike ... John ... Garry ... Milt ... Bill. Could it be any more of a boys' club? Chicago radio hasn't changed in 30 years! WGN: Where Guys Natter
By Catherine Johns (not verified) on 12/07/2011 at 4:04 pm
Sun-Times investors have already tripled and quadrupled their original investments (remember, they bought the chain for $5 million with a promise to pay $25 million in debt which they did through firings and liquidation of assets.
It's time for the fat cat investors to move on to another foundering corporation and suck it dry. The Sun-Times, et al, will be be sold - and soon.
The paper has become a joke and Jeremy Halbreich is drunk from the blood of those he has betrayed. Sign of a very sick, very greedy world.
By Anonymous (not verified) on 12/07/2011 at 8:43 pm
One host for 5.5 hours 5 nights per week. That's a lot? Add 2 hours and divide 7.5 hours by 2 hosts. Maybe the plan is for Rosenberg to be gone soon. It's long past his time also.
By Mary D. (not verified) on 12/08/2011 at 4:37 pm
I love a good guitar lick but good God how much Les Paul, Doyle Dykes, Tommy Emmanuel and Duane Eddy can a person stand? Not to mention the same list of local musical retreads paraded thru the studio over and over and over!?! Enough already! As for Nick Digilio...that studdering monkey exceeded his level of competence when he did 5 minutes of "movie reviews" for Roy Leonard. If you look up - self absorbed, insecure, immature, witless "cool guy" wanabe and you'll see his picture
By BiJo (not verified) on 12/08/2011 at 6:02 pm
I think late night listeners that give Bill Leff a chance and a long listen will be pleased. I've known him for years and followed his career. He gets it, doesn't take himself too seriously and is extremely quick witted. Enjoy the show and don't take life so seriously, folks.
By Leff Fan (not verified) on 12/08/2011 at 11:41 pm
@BiJo - A toast to you! You summed it up perfectly.
By Anonymous (not verified) on 12/09/2011 at 5:24 am
BiJo is absolutely correct.. Nicks speech has improved, but still - OY!
By longtime listener (not verified) on 12/09/2011 at 11:36 am
BiJo is absolutely correct.. Nicks speech has improved, but still - OY!
By longtime listener (not verified) on 12/09/2011 at 11:36 am
BiJo is absolutely correct.. Nicks speech has improved, but still - OY!
By longtime listener (not verified) on 12/09/2011 at 11:36 am
every talk show needs 2 people..like bill leff but can't imagine him on for 5hrs...mike mcconnell is such a drag for his 3 hrs.....katy and judy had steve to interupt every once and awhile plus they changed topics every half hour..which would have been a good idea for steve and johnny....rosenberg..take your ego and leave
By Anonymous (not verified) on 12/09/2011 at 12:47 pm
every talk show needs 2 people..like bill leff but can't imagine him on for 5hrs...mike mcconnell is such a drag for his 3 hrs.....katy and judy had steve to interupt every once and awhile plus they changed topics every half hour..which would have been a good idea for steve and johnny....rosenberg..take your ego and leave
By Anonymous (not verified) on 12/09/2011 at 12:47 pm
@SWSIDE and Jake Ryan
1. Milt would not make it on 'BEZ, he's only slightly to the left of Atilla the Hun.
TONIGHT--our 453rd program on why the failure of America's College Studnents to read Paradise Lost will cause the collapse of society
2. Yes, they're long and considered interviews, but if the night's topic CAN be regarded as political (restaurant review shows, book review shows covering fiction, etc. notwithstanding), it's going to make the center-left listener pretty eager to head back over to 91.5 posthaste. So glad I didn't get that job producing for him in the late '90s.
By MattK (not verified) on 12/09/2011 at 1:24 pm
longtime listener, longtime listener, longtime listener, longtime listener, longtime listener, longtime listener, ugh I'm through.
By Anonymous (not verified) on 12/09/2011 at 2:25 pm
I was a guest on the Steve and Johnnie Show last year, talking about green pest control. They could not have been nicer. They made me comfortable, as did Bill Moller, on his Saturday show this April. Let's give Bill Leff a chance. Rick Moskovitz, President, A-Plus Pest Control, Inc. & VP, Plus Natural Solutions Worldwide, Inc.
By Rick Moskovitz (not verified) on 12/09/2011 at 3:43 pm
I was a guest on the Steve and Johnnie Show last year, talking about green pest control. They could not have been nicer. They made me comfortable, as did Bill Moller, on his Saturday show this April. Let's give Bill Leff a chance. Rick Moskovitz, President, A-Plus Pest Control, Inc. & VP, Plus Natural Solutions Worldwide, Inc.
By Rick Moskovitz (not verified) on 12/09/2011 at 3:43 pm
BiJo nails it on several levels ! :)...S&J remind me of a couple of guests that stayed just a little too long at the party...26 years ?...20 would have been about right. If I never hear about Panama City Beach again that will be too soon.
By Mike C. (not verified) on 12/09/2011 at 3:55 pm
I've already heard enough of Bill Leff filling in on WGN, to be certain of one thing. He's not nearly as funny, cute, or clever as he clearly thinks he is. He sure seems to get a kick out of how himself and how great his standup "schtick" is...Groucho Marx he ain't!
By R.Crumb (not verified) on 12/09/2011 at 8:03 pm
I can't stand Bill Leff's cracking voice. He has a voice made for print.
By JennaRox (not verified) on 12/09/2011 at 9:14 pm
I enjoyed Steve and Johnnie's show and am sorry to see them go. I am especially sad they made such a quick exit. It would have been nice to hear them through the end of the year. I like Nick D's good humor and enthusiasm, and agree with some here that he deserves a larger role on WGN. Chicago is extremely lucky to have a man of Milt Rosenberg's culture and erudition. You rarely hear discussion of such quality outside of CSPAN's Booknotes program.
By DePaul area (not verified) on 12/10/2011 at 1:21 am
First I will give Bill Leff a listen; but he does need a partner with him at nights. With the exception of Eddie Schwartz who was just perfect with all his interviews with personalities and getting first hand news and traffic, it would be hard without having someone else balancing your topics. As far as S & J, glad they are gone. I wondered why they bought a new car a few months ago; they knew this was going to happen to them. At least, they won't be testing new cars which they incessantly told the listener throughout the years about all the news cars they tested (actually I would love that job). I will also give Johnny B a try but already he is giving me a headache.
By Anonymous (not verified) on 12/10/2011 at 1:31 pm
I am SO glad that 'GN hired Bill Leff for a full-time gig. While I love Roe Conn and Richard Roeper, I did miss Bill a great deal when he left, and was hoping he would wind up in a place that appreciated his talents. He is laugh-out-loud funny, and his humor is pretty sophisticated and tongue-in-cheek. Congrats, Bill!
By Ellen (not verified) on 12/10/2011 at 6:54 pm
I have tried to listen to this guy Bill Leff, can't do it have to turn the station off. He is brutal, boring and and seems to talk more about his own stories. I don't find him a bit entertaining. WGN you have a perfect overnight host in Nick. He knows Chicago well and late night people can relate to him. To bad WGN you missed the boat.
By Anonymous (not verified) on 2/18/2012 at 1:06 pm
On the positive side, Milt's science shows are the best thing on radio. His show was once a repository of ideas and dialog, but, unfortunately, it has become nothing more than venue for the Republican party, interrupted by the occasional cerebral discussion of cosmology or evolution. Milt is highly intelligent but, in his tenure as host since 1973, he has become more and more conservative and, as a result, intolerant of ideas that conflict with his own. So sad. One of the most entertaining shows in recent years was when he was hosting a physicist who was decrying the state of science knowledge among the public. When the guest stated that global warming was undeniable by educated people, Milt quickly changed the topic. Hence my supposition that his show is nothing but a repository for conservative, Republican views, facts and opposing opinions to be denied.
To disagree with him on his FB page is even more injurious to the writer, as he does not have to worry about his views offending his entire audience. In this venue I have found his true nature to be evident: absolutely intolerant of anyone who disagrees with him. He will berate and disrespect anyone with opposing views.
Milt will go away from the public airways when he meets his maker, and that will be a very sad day. He is an institution, but an institution gone wrong. WGN should ease him out of his on air responsibilities, and they would be wise to put an intelligent female host on the air.
By Anonymous (not verified) on 4/06/2012 at 8:52 am
On the positive side, Milt's science shows are the best thing on radio. His show was once a repository of ideas and dialog, but, unfortunately, it has become nothing more than venue for the Republican party, interrupted by the occasional cerebral discussion of cosmology or evolution. Milt is highly intelligent but, in his tenure as host since 1973, he has become more and more conservative and, as a result, intolerant of ideas that conflict with his own. So sad. One of the most entertaining shows in recent years was when he was hosting a physicist who was decrying the state of science knowledge among the public. When the guest stated that global warming was undeniable by educated people, Milt quickly changed the topic. Hence my supposition that his show is nothing but a repository for conservative, Republican views, facts and opposing opinions to be denied.
To disagree with him on his FB page is even more injurious to the writer, as he does not have to worry about his views offending his entire audience. In this venue I have found his true nature to be evident: absolutely intolerant of anyone who disagrees with him. He will berate and disrespect anyone with opposing views.
Milt will go away from the public airways when he meets his maker, and that will be a very sad day. He is an institution, but an institution gone wrong. WGN should ease him out of his on air responsibilities, and they would be wise to put an intelligent female host on the air.
By Anonymous (not verified) on 4/06/2012 at 8:52 am
About Robert Feder
Robert Feder has been keeping tabs on the media for more than three decades, including 28 years as a reporter and television/radio columnist for the Chicago Sun-Times. He's a lifelong Chicagoan and graduate of the Medill School of Journalism at Northwestern University. At age 14, he founded the first and only Walter Cronkite Fan Club.
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