Stephen King Closes Bangor Radio Stations

Stephen King has announced the closure of his three Bangor, Maine radio stations, WZON-AM, WKIT, and WZLO, effective December 31. After over 40 years in radio ownership, King, now 77, cited the need to 'get his business affairs in better order' and acknowledged the financial struggles of maintaining the stations, which he has covered at a loss throughout the years. The stations have faced challenges typical of independent media, including competition from corporate broadcasting and digital platforms, leading to declining revenues. King's journey in radio began in 1983 with the purchase of WLBZ, which he renamed WZON, a nod to his novel 'The Dead Zone'. General Manager Ken Wood lamented the loss of independent stations in Maine, noting that they used to be more common. King's decision marks the end of an era for both him and the local community that cherished these stations.