KNBR Axes Host Tom Tolbert After 28 Years, Lays Off Three Others

KNBR, the San Francisco sports radio station, has fired longtime host Tom Tolbert, ending his 28-year run with the station.

Tolbert, known for his humor and blunt commentary, was a popular figure on KNBR, hosting afternoon show "Tolbert & Lund" and, more recently, afternoon show "Tolbert, Krueger & Brooks." He was known as one of the most well-respected and experienced voices in Bay Area sports radio.

The station also laid off three other employees, including Tolbert's producer, Gary Radnich. Radnich had been with KNBR for 23 years.

KNBR's decision to fire Tolbert and lay off the other employees comes as the sports radio landscape continues to change.

With the rise of streaming services and podcasts, more and more people are listening to sports radio online, rather than on traditional radio stations.

In addition, the COVID-19 pandemic has led to a decline in advertising revenue for many radio stations. As a result, many stations have been forced to make cuts.

Tolbert's firing has been met with mixed reactions from listeners.

Some have expressed their anger and disappointment, while others have said that it was time for a change.

KNBR has not yet announced who will replace Tolbert as host of his afternoon show.