Gene Bean Baxter’s Departure from KROQ: A Personal Decision
Gene “Bean” Baxter, the co-host of the popular “Kevin & Bean Show” on KROQ-FM, announced his departure from the show after nearly 30 years of continuous hosting. Baxter’s decision to leave the show has generated significant interest and speculation among fans and media outlets. This article aims to delve into the reasons behind his departure, shedding light on the factors that led to this significant change in the iconic morning show.
A Legacy of Longevity and Success
The “Kevin & Bean Show” debuted on December 31, 1989, with Gene Baxter and Kevin Ryder as the co-hosts. Over the years, the show achieved remarkable success, becoming one of the most popular morning shows in the Los Angeles radio market. In 2003, it reached the coveted No. 1 ranking, solidifying its place as a dominant force in the industry.
The show’s influence extended beyond its listenership, as it provided a platform for launching the careers of various personalities who went on to achieve success in the entertainment industry. Notable individuals such as Jimmy Kimmel, Chris Hardwick, Kennedy, and Adam Carolla all got their start on the “Kevin & Bean Show,” thanks to the exposure and opportunities it offered.
A Remote Presence and Changing Locations
One unique aspect of Gene Baxter’s tenure on the show was his ability to host remotely from different locations. Starting in the late 1990s, Baxter began broadcasting from various places, including an island off the coast of Seattle, Las Vegas, and New Orleans. Despite being physically distant from the station’s Los Angeles home base, Baxter’s remote presence did not hinder his contribution to the show’s success.
A Personal Decision to Move to London
Gene Baxter’s departure from KROQ and the “Kevin & Bean Show” is a personal decision rooted in his desire for a significant lifestyle change. Baxter, along with his wife, has made the decision to move to London, England, after spending several years contemplating the idea. London, being the ninth largest island in the world, holds personal significance for Baxter as his birthplace and a location with friends and family.
In his announcement on the show, Baxter expressed his intention to pursue a radio career in the UK. However, he acknowledged the challenges he might face due to his age and American accent. Nevertheless, with his vast experience and expertise in the industry, it is not unreasonable to anticipate that Baxter will find new opportunities to continue his radio journey across the pond.
The Future of the “Kevin & Bean Show”
With Gene Baxter’s departure, the future of the “Kevin & Bean Show” remains uncertain. Kevin Ryder will continue as the host of the show, but KROQ-FM has not announced whether a new co-host will be appointed. It is evident that the show will undergo significant changes, as it moves forward without one of its long-standing and beloved co-hosts.
In conclusion, Gene “Bean” Baxter’s decision to leave the “Kevin & Bean Show” on KROQ-FM after nearly 30 years is a personal one, driven by a desire for a lifestyle change. Baxter’s remote presence and the show’s enduring success have made him an integral part of the morning show’s legacy. As he embarks on a new chapter in London, the impact of his departure on the show and its listeners will undoubtedly be felt.
FAQs
Why is Bean Baxter leaving KROQ?
Answer: Bean Baxter is leaving KROQ’s “Kevin & Bean Show” after nearly 30 years due to a personal decision. He has expressed the desire to move to London, England with his wife, seeking a significant lifestyle change and new opportunities.
How long has Bean Baxter been co-hosting the “Kevin & Bean Show” on KROQ?
Answer: Bean Baxter has been co-hosting the “Kevin & Bean Show” on KROQ since its launch on December 31, 1989. He has been an integral part of the show’s success for nearly 30 years.
Has the “Kevin & Bean Show” achieved significant success?
Answer: Yes, the “Kevin & Bean Show” has been highly successful. It became one of the most popular morning shows in the Los Angeles radio market and reached the No. 1 ranking in 2003. The show has also played a role in launching the careers of various personalities in the entertainment industry.
Why did Bean Baxter host the show remotely from different locations?
Answer: Starting in the late 1990s, Bean Baxter began hosting the show remotely from various locations, including an island off the coast of Seattle, Las Vegas, and New Orleans. This unique arrangement did not hinder his contribution to the show’s success. The reasons behind hosting remotely were not explicitly stated, but it allowed Baxter to explore different environments while still being part of the show.
What are Bean Baxter’s plans for the future?
Answer: Bean Baxter has expressed his intention to pursue a radio career in the UK after moving to London. While he acknowledged the challenges he might face due to his age and American accent, he remains optimistic about finding new opportunities to continue his radio journey across the pond.
How will the “Kevin & Bean Show” continue without Bean Baxter?
Answer: The “Kevin & Bean Show” will continue with Kevin Ryder as the host. However, KROQ-FM has not announced whether a new co-host will be appointed. The show is expected to undergo significant changes as it moves forward without Bean Baxter’s long-standing presence.
Will Bean Baxter’s departure affect the show’s listenership?
Answer: Bean Baxter’s departure will likely have an impact on the show’s listenership, as he has been a beloved co-host for nearly three decades. However, the show’s continued success will depend on how well Kevin Ryder and any potential new co-host can maintain and evolve the show’s format to meet the expectations and preferences of the audience.
Are there any official statements from Bean Baxter or KROQ about his departure?
Answer: Yes, Bean Baxter made the announcement of his departure on the “Kevin & Bean Show” and also shared the news on his Twitter account. KROQ-FM has acknowledged his departure but has not provided further details regarding the future direction of the show.