Sean Hannity Exits Cumulus Radio [Report]

Sean Hannity’s departure from the Cumulus radio network apparently has been confirmed, but the talk show host rather than Cumulus reportedly precipitated the breakup.

Last month, reports surfaced that Cumulus Media wanted to drop both Hannity and Rush Limbaugh from their radio lineup. Both contracts are up for renewal and negotiations have been ongoing.

Hannity’s radio show airs live Monday through Friday from 3 pm to 6 pm Eastern.

Reports are emerging today Hannity has decided to let his contract lapse because of differences with Cumulus management. Limbaugh may apparently re-up with Cumulus, however.

According to Mediaite, “Cumulus stations have suffered a significant dip in the ratings among the key 25-54 demographic.”

Citing a report from Inside Music Media, Talkers.com claims that Hannity fired Cumulus and not the other way around: “… Hannity has told Cumulus Media CEO Lew Dickey, ‘YOU’RE fired!’ (figuratively) and has unequivocally turned down re-signing with Cumulus, opting to go with his syndicator Clear Channel and move on over to the stations they own in markets where he will undoubtedly be dropped by Cumulus such as in New York where he would move from Cumulus’ WABC to Clear Channel’s WOR.”

According to an anonymous source, Hannity supposedly has said behind the scenes that “The Dickeys are the single worst operators in the history of radio. They have destroyed legendary stations like KGO and KSFO. They are currently in the process of destroying WLS, WABC, WJR, WBAP, and WMAL.”

Last night, Michael Savage predicted that he would take over Sean Hannity’s radio time slot. Savage currently broadcasts his talk show from 9 pm to midnight on the Cumulus radio network.

Earlier this month, the news surfaced that Megyn Kelly would assume Sean Hannity’s 9 pm Eastern primetime show on the Fox News Channel. Fox Boss Roger Ailes confirmed that Kelly would move to primetime but also said that all of the current roster of primetime stars would be returning.