Stephen King Ends Ownership of Maine Radio Stations

Stephen King has announced the closure of his three Bangor, Maine radio stations—WZON, WKIT, and WZLO—by the end of the year, citing financial losses and his advancing age of 77 as primary reasons. King, who purchased WLBZ in 1983 and rebranded it as WZON, expressed pride in being a locally owned independent broadcaster amid a landscape dominated by corporate entities. Despite his passion for radio and efforts to maintain the stations, they have consistently operated at a loss, with King personally covering the deficits. General manager Ken Wood acknowledged the end of an era, highlighting the rarity of local stations in Maine. King and his wife, Tabitha, reflect on their four-decade involvement in the radio industry as a cherished experience, despite the challenges faced. The stations will cease operations on December 31, marking the conclusion of a significant chapter in local broadcasting.