Kansas City Radio Icon Johnny Dare Show to End After 32 Years

KANSAS CITY, Mo. — The Johnny Dare Morning Show, a staple of Kansas City radio for over three decades, has announced its imminent end. Posted on Facebook Thursday, the show will air its final episode on KQRC-FM 98.9 The Rock on Friday, March 7, starting at 6 a.m.

In their farewell announcement, the show’s hosts expressed surprise at their longevity, stating, “No one is more surprised than us that it’s lasted this long, but after 32 years, we got smoked.” Johnny, Jake, Gregg, Kyle, and Nycki have entertained audiences weekday mornings from 6 to 10 a.m. since 1993.

“For better or worse, The Johnny Dare Morning Show has been waking up Kansas City since 1993,” the hosts commented, humorously adding, “You would think we could find a better show by now.”

This announcement wasn’t the only one from the local radio scene on Thursday. The Ponch & Nikki Show on 99.7 The Point also shared on Facebook that they would no longer be part of the station. They promised that further details would follow shortly.

Throughout its run, The Johnny Dare Morning Show has provided charitable support during the holiday season, showcasing the hosts’ commitment to their community. An Audacy spokesperson remarked, “Johnny Dare’s dedication to entertaining and informing his listeners has made an indelible mark on our industry, with unmatched ratings success in Kansas City radio. Outside the studio, his charitable efforts have exemplified radio’s power to unite communities and make a real difference.”

Audacy, the station’s parent company, expressed gratitude for Johnny Dare’s incredible 32-year run on 98.9 The Rock, wishing him well in his future endeavors. Dare previously faced health challenges, battling pancreatic issues in 2021, but he successfully returned to broadcasting.