KCAL 96.7, a longtime Southern California classic rock station, has reportedly dismissed its entire on-air staff and shifted to a fully automated, music-only format. The abrupt programming change affects more than a dozen radio personalities tied to the station.
The move marks a major break for a station that had built its identity around familiar voices as well as music. According to the report, one of the employees impacted was a veteran DJ who had been with KCAL for 42 years, highlighting how deeply the layoffs cut into the station’s history.
With the switch, KCAL appears to be moving away from live-hosted segments and local on-air presence in favor of nonstop automated programming. For listeners, that means the station’s sound and daily rhythm could change significantly, especially for those who tuned in for longtime hosts.
The decision closes a chapter for a well-known California radio brand that had been a staple for classic rock fans in the region. By removing all on-air talent at once, KCAL’s format flip stands out as a dramatic reset for the station.
