WKIT 100.3 FM, one of three radio stations owned by author Stephen King in Maine, has found a last-minute buyer just days before its planned shutdown. Bangor businessman Jeff Solari and his partner Greg Hawes have acquired the station, which was the most popular among King's radio properties.

The sale comes after King announced plans to cease operations of his three stations (WKIT 100.3 FM, WZLO 620 AM, and WZON 103.1 FM) by the end of 2024. The 77-year-old author cited a desire to organize his business affairs, while station manager Ken Wood revealed the stations had accumulated significant losses over the years.

Solari, who brings extensive media experience to the acquisition, is president of Rock Lobster Media and operates Sports Chowdah, Maine's only free weekly sports newsletter. While financial terms weren't disclosed, the deal ensures WKIT's continued operation.

The other two stations, WZLO and WZON, are still scheduled to cease broadcasting at year's end. This development occurs amid broader industry challenges, with major players like iHeartMedia and Cumulus Media implementing layoffs, while SiriusXM undergoes strategic restructuring following disappointing Q3 results and declining stock value.

This preservation of WKIT 100.3 FM represents a rare positive outcome in today's challenging radio broadcasting landscape, maintaining a significant media presence in the Bangor community.

Related Articles

Previous Articles