Stephen King's WKIT Radio Station Saved by Last-Minute Buyer Before Shutdown
WKIT, one of Stephen King's radio stations in Maine, has found a last-minute buyer just days before its planned shutdown. Bangor businessman Jeff Solari and his business partner Greg Hawes have acquired WKIT 100.3 FM, ensuring the station's continued operation.
Bangor skyline from Penobscot River
The sale comes after King announced plans to cease operations of his three radio stations (WKIT 100.3 FM, WZLO 620 AM, and WZON 103.1 FM) by the end of 2024. The 77-year-old author cited a desire to organize his business affairs, while station manager Ken Wood revealed the stations had accumulated significant losses over the years.
Solari brings substantial media experience to the acquisition through his role as president of Rock Lobster Media, which owns Sports Chowdah, Maine's only free weekly sports email newsletter. While financial details remain undisclosed, the purchase aligns with Rock Lobster's expansion plans in the Bangor-Brewer area.
The rescue of WKIT stands out amid broader industry challenges, as major radio companies face significant restructuring:
- iHeartMedia implemented extensive layoffs affecting stations like Los Angeles' KFI 640
- Cumulus Media conducted its own staff reductions
- SiriusXM undergoes strategic realignment following disappointing Q3 results
While WKIT's future is secured, King's other stations, WZLO and WZON, are still scheduled to cease broadcasting at year's end.
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