Johnson to Retire from KMJ After 49 Years in Radio

RADIO ONLINE | Wednesday, May 28, 2025 | 6:07pm CT

E. Curtis Johnson

Cumulus Media's KMJ (News Talk 580 and 105.9) has announced the upcoming retirement of longtime Fresno radio personality and current afternoon co-host E. Curtis Johnson. His final show will air Friday, May 30, marking the close of a 49-year career in broadcasting. Johnson has co-hosted KMJ's afternoon drive with Philip Teresi since March 2023, with their show airing weekdays from 2-6pm PT.

Reflecting on his decision, Johnson said, "I was truly excited to get the gig here at KMJ a little over two years ago. I've enjoyed working with Philip and the entire staff has welcomed me as one of their own. I thought I'd be here longer, but some unexpected health issues made the decision to retire the right choice for me. It was a hard decision to make, but I'm comfortable that I've made the right call for my quality of life. I will miss this team."

Johnson's radio career has spanned nearly five decades, with on-air roles in markets including San Diego, Salt Lake City, and Ventura-Santa Barbara, CA. In addition to his on-air work, he served as a consultant and Brand Manager in cities such as Columbia SC, Anchorage and Fairbanks AK, and several California markets including San Luis Obispo, Modesto, and Bakersfield. He also held the position of group Program Director for two Fresno radio groups and was Program Director at KRZR-FM from 1989 to 2007.

KMJ Program Director Blake Taylor praised Johnson's contributions, stating, "It was great working with a true professional who brought great insights and a unique skill set to our audience. We're going to miss E. I trust he's going to take full advantage of the time off. He deserves it!"

Co-host Philip Teresi added, "E. Curtis Johnson gave me my first job in radio. It was an absolute pleasure to have this full-circle experience, sharing the past two years with him as my partner on KMJ. There are many places in the Valley where E. made his mark, and the entire industry is better for his contributions. I wish my friend and mentor nothing but the best in his next chapter. But it IS weird that I still don't know the guy's first name."