KLOS (95. 5 FM) has announced the firing of its afternoon DJs, Kevin Ryder and Doug “Sluggo” Roberts, effective September 6, 2024, as part of a cost-cutting initiative by the station's owner, Meruelo Media Group. The station is actively searching for a new afternoon host, advertising a position that surprisingly offers a salary range of $70,000 to $90,000 per year. This pay scale has raised eyebrows among industry experts, who believe it is insufficient for attracting top talent in a major market like Los Angeles. The article discusses the broader financial struggles facing the radio industry, suggesting that without competitive salaries, stations risk losing listeners to platforms like Spotify and Apple Music.

The job listing emphasizes the importance of having a charismatic and engaging personality, along with skills in video editing and social media interaction. Observers have expressed concern about the potential talent pool, suggesting that such wages may only attract individuals fresh out of college. Despite acknowledging KLOS's historical significance in the local community, the article questions the future viability of radio as a medium. Ultimately, the situation reflects a significant challenge for the industry as it navigates a rapidly changing media landscape.