A California radio station has dismissed its DJs and online personalities as it shifts toward an automated, humanless programming model.
VICE reported that KCAL 96.7 let go of its on-air and digital staff. The move reflects pressure on broadcasters to reduce labor costs while using software to schedule music and deliver announcements.
Supporters say automation can lower expenses, while critics say removing local hosts may weaken a stations connection to listeners and reduce community interaction. The decision also raises questions about media jobs and local programming.
Source: VICE, Aug. 3, 2026.
