Walt Bodine Must Go
I know that Walt Bodine is something of an institution here in Kansas City, and that a shitstorm erupted when Patty Cahill tried to get him off the airwaves a few years ago when he still had a little dignity. But, seriously, it's time. If you listen to Walt's show lately (and, because ratings aren't done for public radio, I have no idea how few of you there are), you are subjected to a rambling, inattentive, unfocused, unpleasant old man. They've promoted the smooth-voiced and charming Martha Lally (scroll down) to the cohost position, and now's the time to move her into the sole-host role. It was a good ride, Walt, but you've slid out of the saddle.
posted by Dan at 11/13/2005 11:01:00 AM
8 Comments:
I was really surprised when I moved here from KWMU land in St. Louis, where I was accustomed to listening to the Diane Rehm Show from Washington, D.C. She covers a wide variety of issues and has a wide variety of guests. KWMU's motto is "Intelligent Talk." Diane fits the bill.
Instead, I hear Walt. He's supposed to be a legend in KC media, but I couldn't figure how why he couldn't conduct a proper interview or why he seemed that he hadn't prepared for it. I finally got on the Internet and learned that he is blind. I hate to be cruel, but I agree with the original post.
PLEASE let/force this poor man retire. I went to Sirius Satalite, just so I didn't have to listen to him and his ocassional "yea"..."oh"..."ha ha". Really KCUR, could you take a look at a transcript of what he contributes. I love the format, though since Kelly Wisse(sp), took over as Host, the amount of geriatrical subject matter is fairly boring. As for the above comment about Diane Rehm, I now get her program and although she is more mentally capable than Walt Bodine, she sounds like she is 25 years past her prime as well.
Anonymous from 4/9/2007, 10:29 am:
Clue in. Diane Rehm sounds that way because she suffers from spasmodic dysphonia, not because she is too old to do a radio show. If you listen as you say, you must not pay much attention.
Great article! Thanks.
Thanks for interesting article.
Excellent website. Good work. Very useful. I will bookmark!
Walt is an icon, legend and institution. The "shitstorm" happened due to this town's love for the man. He's earned our respect. Two choices...move back to St. Louis or change the station.
To some of us Walt Bodine is like a respected "Uncle" whose knowledge of local history will be lost when he leaves us.
Considering his health problems, I am amazed that he continues to soldier on. Each day he is not on the the air, I worry that we may be at the end of an era.
When an issue is dicussed that arouses his passion, we still hear flashs insight and mature decency seldom encountered in today's media.
I, for one, will miss "Uncle Walt" when he is no longer with us.
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