May 22, 2009
wgnradio.com

(WGN-AM)- WGN Radio 720 AM announced it is discontinuing the "Kathy & Judy Show," featuring program hosts Kathy O'Malley and Judy Markey, at the end of Friday morning's broadcast.

The show was unprecedented in local radio when WGN brought together O'Malley, then a columnist for the Chicago Tribune, and Markey, a columnist for the Chicago Sun-Times. They took on topics that were once taboo in talk radio, injecting wit, wisdom and women's insights into their daily mid-morning conversations.

"Kathy & Judy have been a phenomenal chapter in WGN Radio's rich history," said Tom Langmyer, VP/General Manager of WGN Radio. "They have a level of personal connection with their listeners that is extremely rare. They've shared fun, laughter, joy and a wonderful relationship with their many 'Girlfriends.' They will be missed and we wish them much happiness."

"This was a business decision," Langmyer added. "The media business and the Chicago radio market have changed dramatically in the last few years, including a new method of ratings measurement. WGN needs to respond to these changes, and this is the time to move in a new direction."

Though they will not be on-air program hosts, O'Malley and Markey will continue to be employed by WGN and will be heard in commercial announcements.

WGN will name a replacement host or hosts for the mid-morning program in the coming weeks.