Posted by chicagomedia.org on September 26, 2008 at 22:44:20:
Casting call
WGN getting down to business in plans for new morning show
When Spike O'Dell signs off Dec. 31 as morning personality at WGN-AM (720), there might not be just one person replacing him.
Sources at the Tribune Co.-owned news/talk station say it's possible he'll be succeeded by a two-person team -- or perhaps an ensemble -- on the city's top-rated morning show.
Ideally, WGN bosses hope to make their decision within the next three weeks, although it could take longer to finalize the deals, especially if they bring in anyone from outside the market.
They're said to be trying to balance their goal to make the new show "smart, hip, relevant and fun" with the need to keep it within the comfort zone of WGN.
It's no coincidence that several insiders turned up in various combinations this week filling in for O'Dell, including Steve Cochran, John Williams, Bob Sirott and Nick Digilio.
Radio master Fred Winston also appeared as a fill-in host last weekend, although he's more likely being considered for a part-time role, insiders said.
(feder/st)