Brennaman to replace McConnell in Mornings on 700 WLW

RADIO ONLINE | Thursday, April 3, 2025

Thom Brennaman

Thom Brennaman is set to rejoin Cincinnati's radio approximately five years after stepping down as a broadcaster for the Cincinnati Reds and being dismissed from his FOX Sports Ohio role. His departure came a month after a suspension for using a homophobic slur during a live broadcast. Brennaman is slated to take over the morning slot at 700 WLW, filling the shoes of Mike McConnell, whose last day is Friday, April 4.

"I am so grateful. This station has been a part of my life for 51 years. This is a really, really good thing [for me]," Brennaman said Thursday on WLW following the announcement.

McConnell, who is retiring after a 45-year career on Cincinnati radio, including the last ten years in the morning slot, shared some reflections on his career. Known for his candid demeanor, McConnell admitted, "I never thought of myself as a morning guy... You know, they're cheerier than I am. I can be cheery from time to time. I'm part-time cheery."

WLW confirmed that Brennaman would be taking over the morning show, although it remains unclear if he will begin immediately after McConnell's departure.