Stephen King's Radio Stations: A Legacy Ended

In a surprising turn of events, legendary horror author Stephen King has announced the closure of his three radio stations in Maine, marking a significant moment in the local media landscape. King, who has captivated millions with his chilling novels and spine-tingling adaptations, has also been a passionate local media mogul for over 40 years, deeply rooted in his hometown of Bangor, Maine.

Since purchasing WLBZ in 1983 and rebranding it as WZON—an homage to his celebrated novel *The Dead Zone*—King expanded his media endeavors by adding WZLO and WKIT, the latter proudly marketed as “Stephen King’s Rock ’n’ Roll Station.” The stations provided a platform for local music, news, and community engagement, reflecting King’s dedication to the culture and people of Bangor.

However, the 77-year-old King revealed that the operations have faced persistent financial losses, totaling millions over the years. On New Year’s Eve, WZON, WZLO, and WKIT will sign off for the last time, concluding a cherished chapter in King’s life and the local community.

A Heartfelt Announcement

In a heartfelt statement, King shared his mixed feelings about stepping away from the radio business. “While radio across the country has been overtaken by giant corporate broadcasting groups, I’ve loved being a local, independent owner all these years,” he said. While he assured fans of his good health, he noted the need to organize his business affairs as he reflects on his later years.

Community Impact

The impact of this closure resonates deeply throughout the community. Local shows, such as *Downtown With Rich Kimball*, lament the impending loss, with Kimball expressing sadness not just for himself but for the dedicated staff who now face an uncertain future. “It’s bittersweet,” he remarked, signaling the emotional toll this decision has taken on both employees and loyal listeners.

Cara Pelletier, chair of the Bangor City Council, emphasized the stations' significance, describing them as a lifeline to the community and a testament to King’s commitment to Bangor. As she noted, “I don’t think you can overstate the importance of these stations and by extension, the importance of Stephen King’s legacy here in Bangor.”

King’s stations were not merely a source of entertainment. They played an essential role in community support, notably raising over $240,000 during the federal government’s proposed cuts to the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program in 2011, helping to ensure that struggling families had the heating oil they needed during harsh Maine winters.

A Music Legacy

Moreover, King’s affinity for rock music—part of his identity as an author—shines through the programming of his stations. His special connection with the punk band The Ramones, who recorded “Pet Sematary” for the film adaptation of his novel, is a cherished piece of pop culture history. King has been known to listen to a range of genres while writing, from heavy metal to classic rock, influencing the musical landscape in his broadcasts.

The Future of Local Radio

As the landscape of radio continues to evolve, the King family’s overtures to maintain independent ownership highlight a dwindling presence of locally owned stations across the nation. Ken Wood, the stations’ general manager over the past decade, reflected on the changing tides: “Independent, locally owned radio stations used to be the norm. There’re only a few left in Maine, and we’re lucky we had these three as long as we did.”

As the countdown to the final broadcast begins, fans and community members are left to ponder the void these stations will leave in their lives. Will they ever find a replacement that resonates as deeply with Bangor's residents? Only time will tell.