Jon Marks Returns to The Fanatic as Midday Host

PHILADELPHIA, PA — Jon Marks is back on the airwaves as the new midday host for 97.5 The Fanatic. The former co-host of Mike Missanelli announced his return Thursday afternoon during the station’s Unfiltered show.

“It’s kind of surreal walking in here today,” Marks said. “It’s been almost two years since I’ve worked full time… I have a lot of energy, and I’m broke, so I need to get back to work.” Marks will begin his new role on Monday, hosting “Middays with Marks,” from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

The decision to bring Marks back is backed by program director Scott Masteller, who mentioned Marks’ familiarity with the station and the loyal following he has built over the years. “He has name recognition and he’s excited to be with us, and we’re excited to have him on the team,” Masteller said.

This will be Marks’ second time at The Fanatic. He previously spent 11 years at the station from 2005 to 2016, working alongside notable figures like Anthony Gargano and Tony Bruno. Most recently, he hosted afternoons at WIP until earlier this year.

Marks is also eager to balance his family life with work. He mentioned that the midday schedule allows him to be more present for his three daughters. “Hosting middays means I won’t miss time with my kids,” he said.

Despite WIP’s strong ratings in Philadelphia, Marks is confident about his return. “I wasn’t coming back to radio unless I felt like I had a legitimate chance to win and to have the best show in the city,” he remarked.

The move comes after a tumultuous few months at The Fanatic, which saw Missanelli’s departure followed by Ray Dunne’s temporary hosting. Now, as Marks steps back in, he aims to create a show that resonates with the city’s sports fans.

Masteller expressed no unrealistic expectations regarding competition between the two radio stations, emphasizing a focus on delivering quality content: “We have to stay in our lane and just be focused on delivering good, solid content that will build an audience.”