WTMX (The Mix)/Chicago Host Eric Ferguson is Out

RADIO ONLINE | Saturday, October 30, 2021 | 0:32am CT

Eric Ferguson

WTMX-FM (The Mix)/Chicago host Eric Ferguson is leaving the "Eric in the Morning" show after 25 years -- following allegations of inappropriate behavior and abuse of power with former female colleagues. He came off the air in October, after former assistant producer Cynthia DeNicolo filed a suit alleging he coerced sexual favors from her in 2004. More allegations then arose from three other women, including Ferguson's former co-host Melissa McGurren.

In a statement from Ferguson to station employees, Ferguson wrote, "I feel that returning to the air at this time, in this environment, will be an unfair distraction to my colleagues, and the rest of the morning show members who work so hard. As a result, and after discussions with Hubbard leadership, we've decided it is best that I step away from the show. I'm energized to move forward and defend myself against claims made against me and the station, and look forward to seeing them through to their conclusion. I am confident that at the end of the day the courts will rule and the right outcome will prevail."

Earlier this month, WUSN-FM (US99)/Chicago morning co-host Melissa McGurren filed a defamation lawsuit against Hubbard Radio alleging that The Mix management perpetuated a culture of discrimination to protect cash cows such as its morning host Eric Ferguson "at any cost." She's seeking $10 million in damages.

Hubbard Radio/Chicago VP/Market Manager Jeff England said in a memo to employees on October 5 that the company "thoroughly investigated this matter previously. Suffice it to say that we do not agree with Melissa's characterization of events."

McGurren's suit includes a declaration as an exhibit from another former employee, Jennifer Ashrafi, who said she left as the station's afternoon co-host in January, 2020 because she was so "disgusted" by the "misogyny, gender discrimination and hostile work environment that was pervasive" at the station.

Current morning co-hosts Nikki Chuminatto, Brian "Whip" Paruch and Violeta Podrumedic will continue to air in mornings.