Jack Diamond bid farewell to Chicago Friday, closing out an effort as morning personality at WLS FM 94.7 that never gained traction.
On vacation from the Cumulus Media classic hits station since July 24, Diamond confirmed he won’t be coming back. Sources said the company chose to sever ties.
It’s now up to incoming program director Brian Thomas to decided whether to replace Diamond or retain Brant Miller as solo morning host. Thomas already has to name a successor to outgoing evening star John Records Landecker, whose last show airs Friday.
“I had an absolute blast!” Diamond wrote of his Chicago experience on Facebook Friday. “What a great city (I’ll be back : ) And what an amazing radio station and incredible staff. Brian Thomas is a terrific guy and wonderful programmer. I’m only sorry we didn’t have the opportunity to work together.”
Best known as a radio fixture in Washington, D.C., where he spent 24 years on WRQX, Diamond first turned up on WLS FM in July 2014. Between contract issues, an ill-fated move to San Diego, health problems and other absences, few listeners knew whether Diamond was here or not.
In the latest Nielsen Audio survey, WLS FM tied for 16th place in mornings with a 2.4 percent share and cumulative weekly audience of 350,200.