KNBR cuts veteran play-by-play announcer Greg Papa amid health struggles
KNBR dismissed longtime broadcaster Greg Papa and co-host Greg Silver as part of a midday lineup overhaul, while Papa recovers from serious health issues.
KNBR removed long-time Bay Area sports radio personality Greg Papa and his midday co-host Greg Silver, inserting veteran host John Lund into the 10 a.m.-2 p.m. slot. Papa, who also serves as the lead play-by-play voice for the San Francisco 49ers, is currently undergoing rehabilitation for two collapsed lungs following a bone-marrow transplant earlier this year. Despite signing a new multiyear contract in April to stay on the 49ers broadcast team alongside Tim Ryan, the station’s parent company Cumulus Media released a statement praising Papa’s legacy while refusing to comment on the specifics of his departure.
The announcement prompted a wave of criticism and questions on social media, as listeners expressed concern over the timing given Papa’s health battle. The new midday program, “Fair and Biased with John Lund,” will now occupy the former Papa-Silver slot. Cumulus indicated it is still exploring ways to bring Papa’s voice back to the station and wished him a full recovery.
Why it matters
The firing of a beloved sports broadcaster during a serious health crisis raises concerns about employer support for employees facing medical challenges.
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