Two of Washington’s most popular radio voices are no longer on the air. ESPN 980AM has released Smokin’ Al Koken and Brian Mitchell. It was first reported by the Web site DCRTV that both members of The John Thompson Show would not be back.
Koken and Mitchell were victims of the media crunch being felt all around the country. The station made the choice not to renew the contracts of the two broadcasters.
The move leaves Kevin Sheehan as the solo host of the station’s popular Locker Room show heard from noon-2 p.m. Monday through Friday.
Rick “Doc” Walker has been moved to the 2 p.m. slot as part of The John Thompson Show, reuniting with the aforementioned former Georgetown head coach.
The station’s showcase drive time program — The Sports Reporters with Andy Pollin and Steve Czaban — is likely safe from any changes.
It is a shame to see Koken and Mitchell became part of the rash of media cuts here in Washington and around the country. Koken has been a fixture on Washington radio and television for more than 25 years and was with WTEM and ESPN 980AM almost from the beginning. He will continue to be part of the Capitals broadcasts on Comcast SportsNet.
As for Mitchell, he has been one of Washington’s fastest rising stars. He was solid on the radio and has been working on TV during the Redskins season for both Channel 9 and Comcast SportsNet, where he likely will continue to ply his trade.
We will bring you more on the happenings at ESPN 980AM later this week.
Jim Williams is a seven-time Emmy Award-winning TV producer, director and writer. Check out his blog, Watch this! on washingtonexaminer.com.
