So long, Kathy: The year that rocked The Mix

Eric Ferguson and Kathy Hart in happier days

The dismissal of Kathy Hart last week — and the demise of the phenomenally successful “Eric & Kathy” brand after 21 years on Chicago radio — culminated a tumultuous year for WTMX FM 101.9.

Eric Ferguson, who’s been hosting solo since Hart went on leave from the Hubbard Radio hot adult-contemporary station in late April, officially carries on without her now.

A new title for the morning show is expected to be announced this week.

Hart’s next move is anyone’s guess.

Here is a timeline of events leading to the breakup of “Eric & Kathy,” as reported on this blog. To read the full posts, click on the headlines:

November 18, 2016: Robservations: Radio cheers for Hall of Famers Eric & Kathy

January 17, 2017: Robservations: The Mix renews morning stars Eric & Kathy

May 3: Kathy Hart missing from The Mix

May 16: Eric & Kathy ready for a Hart break?

June 13: ‘Eric & Kathy’ still No. 1 — even with Kathy out of The Mix

July 28: The Mix message: ‘Eric & Kathy’ appear headed for splitsville

August 15: Robservations: Missing from radiothon, Kathy Hart changes agents again

August 17: Kathy Hart tells fans: ‘I fully intend to be back on the air’

September 7: ‘Eric & Kathy’ kaput: The Mix fires Kathy Hart

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