Charlotte Says Farewell to “The Big Show” After 38 Years on Air

Charlotte Bids Adieu to “The Big Show” After 38 Years!

Charlotte, it’s time to grab a tissue because we’ve got some sentimental news that’s hitting the airwaves! This Friday marks the final broadcast of one of the city’s beloved radio staples, “The Big Show” with John Boy and Billy. The station, 99.7 The Fox, made the heartfelt announcement this week with pre-recorded messages and just like that, a chapter closes in Charlotte’s radio history.

A Trip Down Memory Lane

Can you believe it? “The Big Show” has been entertaining listeners since 1980! It all kicked off at WBCY and later found a new home at WRFX. Over the decades, this dynamic duo turned into a national sensation, reaching audiences far beyond the Queen City. By the early 2000s, they competed with heavyweights like Rush Limbaugh and Howard Stern. Talk about a phenomenal rise!

But all good things must come to an end. In the station’s farewell message, they said, “As the curtain falls, Charlotte says thank you.” A truly bittersweet moment for many who grew up with John Boy and Billy as part of their morning routine.

The Show Must Go On

Now, if you’re worried about saying goodbye forever, hang tight! While 99.7 is waving goodbye, the show isn’t disappearing completely. Fans will still be able to catch “The Big Show” on other radio stations across America, and yes, it’ll continue to rock the airwaves on the free iHeartRadio app and iHeartRadio.com. So, you can still tune in and laugh along with John Boy and Billy wherever you are!

What’s Next?

Curious about why 99.7 decided to part ways with this long-standing show? Well, that’s a mystery! The station has kept mum about the specifics, and attempts to reach the owner, iHeart Media Charlotte, were met with silence. It leaves us all wondering what led to this monumental decision!

As for the talented hosts, Johnny “John Boy” Isley and Billy James, they’re as cheeky and charming as ever, though they may be celebrating this transition with a hint of confusion themselves. In a light-hearted comment to a local observer, Billy mentioned, “I’m not sure I’m the right person to ask” about the direction of the show’s future. Meanwhile, John Boy didn’t respond to inquiries, keeping the suspense alive!

Producer’s Perspective

Longtime producer Jackie Curry did share that he’ll still have a job through next year, but unfortunately, that left us with more questions than answers about the fate of the beloved show. With renewed syndication agreements just last September, fans certainly didn’t see this twist coming!

The Big Show’s Legacy

The impact of “The Big Show” is undeniable. With nearly 50 country and rock stations still carrying it across the nation, and its dedicated channel on iHeartRadio, it’s clear that many listeners will continue to enjoy the antics, humor, and camaraderie John Boy and Billy have provided for nearly four decades. In a statement around their agreement renewal, they quipped, “We’re thrilled they’ve asked us to keep doing … whatever the heck it is that we do.” Talk about keeping it real!

Wrapping It Up

So, Charlotte, it’s time to reflect on the laughter, the memories, and those quirky bits that made “The Big Show” part of our lives. Here’s to John Boy, Billy, Jackie, and all the behind-the-scenes heroes who contributed to the magic of the show. While this local gem might be leaving our airwaves, it will forever hold a special spot in the hearts of many. Thank you for the 38 years of laughs, stories, and music!