Longtime WMGK Host Andre Gardner Exits Philly Airwaves

RADIO ONLINE | Friday, October 18, 2024

Andre Gardner

After two decades as the afternoon host on WMGK-FM in Philadelphia, Andre Gardner has been laid off from the station, reports the Philadelpha Inquirer's Nick Vadala. Gardner announced via social media that Friday would mark his final show after being informed that his position had been eliminated. Beasley Media Group, the parent company of WMGK, confirmed Gardner's departure, thanking him for his years of contributions.

In a statement, Beasley Chief Communications Officer Heidi Raphael said, "We are grateful for his contributions over the years on WMGK and wish him the very best."

In his social media post, Gardner acknowledged these difficulties, stating that Beasley, like other media companies, has had to make "tough strategic decisions."

On his final show, Gardner thanked WMGK Market Manager Paul Blake and Program Director Eric Johnson for allowing him to bid farewell to his listeners, calling it "a true rarity in this business." His final set included songs such as Genesis' "That's All" and Aerosmith's "What It Takes," which he noted were coincidentally appropriate.

Gardner's tenure at WMGK spanned 22 years, beginning in 2002. His radio career, which has lasted nearly five decades, began in 1977 at 94.5 WPST in Trenton. Gardner also hosted the syndicated show "Breakfast with the Beatles," which concluded in 2022. His departure comes just months after the announcement of his induction into the Broadcast Pioneers of Philadelphia's 2024 Hall of Fame class, with a ceremony scheduled for November.

Despite uncertainty about his future, Gardner expressed gratitude for his time at WMGK. "From the bottom of my heart, thank you for hanging out with me and being on the other end of the speakers or ear buds. I've loved every minute of it," he wrote.