The radio industry has seen many great talents come and go, each leaving an indelible mark in their own unique way. One such figure is BJ Shea, whose voice has been a staple on the airwaves for over two decades.
However, after 17 years of entertaining Seattle on KISW, Shea has decided to part ways with the station. This surprising news has led many to ask the question, “Why is BJ Shea leaving KISW?” Let’s delve into the details to find out.
BJ Shea Left KISW After 17 Years
For 17 years, BJ Shea graced the airwaves of Seattle’s KISW. His morning show, filled with laughter, insightful commentary, and engaging interviews, became a beloved part of many listeners’ daily routines. However, on his last show, Shea announced his departure, stating, “The company and I are parting ways. I don’t know the future, but I hope I have one.” His words were filled with both gratitude and uncertainty about his future in radio.
His final show was a star-studded affair, with appearances from many of his colleagues and friends. These included Brother Wease, Bob Rivers, Dave ‘Hairclub’ Richards, Mitch Levy, Sarah Colonna, Jon Ryan, Duff McKagan, Curt Kruse, and Jen Pirak. Despite the celebratory nature of the event, the underlying question remained – why is BJ Shea leaving KISW?
BJ Shea Radio Broadcasting: Life and Career Radio Broadcasting
BJ Shea’s journey in radio broadcasting began in Boston, where he worked at several stations before joining Brother Wease’s Show at WCMF in Rochester, NY. His career spanned across various cities – San Francisco, Jacksonville, Phoenix – before he returned to WCMF as an afternoon host in 1997.
His move to Seattle came in 1999, where he hosted middays at Hot Talk “100.7 The Buzz” KQBZ. However, his stint there was rocky, and he was fired and rehired within a year. Following the closure of KQBZ in 2005, Shea found a new home at KISW in 2006. It was here that he met Steve Migs, who started as a producer and later rose to become Shea’s co-host. Together, they helmed the popular morning show “BJ & Migs.”
Over the years, BJ worked her way up the ranks, eventually becoming a news director and then a morning show host. She is known for her engaging personality, her ability to connect with listeners, and her dedication to delivering accurate and informative news.
BJ Shea is a true pioneer in the field of radio broadcasting. She is an inspiration to aspiring broadcasters and a role model for women in the industry. Her passion for radio is evident in everything she does, and she continues to make a significant contribution to the field.
BJ Shea’s New Chapter at iHeartMedia’s KZOK
Just three days after signing off at KISW, BJ Shea is gearing up to entertain audiences at KZOK, replacing the charismatic Danny Bonaduce. With the dawn of the new year, listeners can expect fresh content with the “B.J. & Sarah Mornings” kicking off on January 8.
The announcement of this transition was made in an exuberant on-air segment featuring both Bonaduce and Shea. They humorously discussed the impressive line-up of shows that KZOK has hosted over the years, including those headlined by Bob Rivers, Robin & Maynard, and even a brief period with Jimmy Kimmel. Following this, Bonaduce alluded to Shea as the next legend to join this prestigious list.
During the segment, Shea candidly shared his admiration for Bob Rivers and his decision to emulate Rivers’ career move from KISW to KZOK back in 2001. Shea echoed his enthusiasm for this new venture in a subsequent press statement where he expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to continue doing what he loves in a city he adores, alongside talented co-host Sarah Schiller.
Sarah, a KZOK veteran since 2011, shared her excitement about partnering with BJ Shea, lauding him as a true Seattle radio legend who could successfully fill the shoes of the departing Bonaduce.
Who is Replacing BJ Shea KISW?
The station aired BJ & Migs (BJ Shea and Steve Migs) in the mornings until Shea’s final show at KISW on December 15th, 2023. The Daly Migs Show (Taryn Daly and Steve Migs) premiered on January 3, 2024, as the replacement for BJ & Migs. The station airs Ryan Castle in middays.
Conclusion
The departure of BJ Shea from KISW marks the end of an era and the beginning of new opportunities for both Shea and the station. As he embarks on his new journey at iHeartMedia’s KZOK, fans can look forward to the same engaging and entertaining content they have come to expect from him.
Meanwhile, KISW listeners can anticipate a refreshing new morning show with the debut of The Daly Migs Show. Change is inevitable in the world of radio, but with these talented personalities at the helm, the future of Seattle radio looks bright.
