Longtime KNBR Host Departs After 28 Years Due to Corporate Money Issues
A total of four people were laid off by KNBR on Wednesday, including two behind-the-scenes staff and on-air hosts Tom Tolbert and John Lund. Creative director Tony Rhein and board operator/producer Danny Dunn were also let go on the same day. KNBR morning show host Brian Murphy confirmed these departures at the beginning of the “Murph and Markus” show on Thursday, describing the reasoning behind the layoffs as “cruel, corporate money reasons and no other reason.”
Murphy expressed his sadness and frustration at the departures, emphasizing that the departed colleagues were not just coworkers but friends. Tolbert is set to have a farewell show on Thursday, contrasting with the lack of a farewell show for Murphy’s former morning show co-host Paul McCaffrey when he was laid off last year. These recent departures mark the second major change within KNBR in less than a year.
Tom Tolbert, who had been with KNBR for 28 years, confirmed his departure via text to SFGATE. Alongside Tolbert, Lisa Dollinger, a spokesperson for KNBR’s station owner Cumulus, also confirmed that Tolbert would have one final show on Thursday. Sources within the station revealed that midday host John Lund has also been let go.
KNBR program director Mike Hohler declined to comment but mentioned that a press release with details would be issued on Thursday. Tolbert’s departure represents a significant change for KNBR, as he has been a constant presence at the station for nearly three decades, except for a brief absence in 2017 due to heart surgery.
Tolbert’s legacy at KNBR dates back to 1996 when he joined the station after his basketball career with the Golden State Warriors. He initially partnered with Ralph Barbieri to create the popular “The Razor and Mr. T” show before cycling through co-hosts in recent years. Despite the changes, Tolbert remained a familiar voice on the airwaves, captivating audiences with his sports commentary and analysis.
In addition to his radio career, Tolbert has also worked as a color analyst for NBA games on networks like NBC and ESPN. He has been a part of Warriors radio broadcasts alongside play-by-play man Tim Roye, a role he will continue despite his departure from KNBR.
As KNBR navigates these latest changes, the departure of Tom Tolbert marks the end of an era for the Sports Leader. The station will continue to evolve, but Tolbert’s contributions and legacy will remain a significant part of its history.
