Arts & Entertainment

Legendary Connecticut Radio Announcer To Hang Up The Mic

The veteran announcer says he's hosted more than 9,000 shows.

After more than 30 years, and more than 9,000 shows, legendary radio announcer Gary Craig told his audience this morning that he will retire from 96.5 WTIC-FM sometime in June. Listen to the announcement below.

The Craig & Company host, who joined the Hartford station in 1981, surprised his cohorts with the news, telling them that while driving into the station Monday morning he just felt like it was time.

"I really hate goodbyes, goodbyes suck," he said. "But everything good or bad has to come to an end eventually. I mean nothing lasts forever.

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"I think I've been at the fair a little too long."

Craig had been with the station for 11 years when he was fired in the early 1990s and moved to rival WKSS-FM for a few years, only to return to WTIC in 1996.

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He didn't give an exact date in June for when he plans to step down, and added that he currently has no idea what he'll do next.

Dozens of fans showed him some love on his Facebook page Monday, wishing him the best of luck and letting him know how much they've appreciated him over the years.

"I’ve listened to you since you began," wrote Francine Veilleux Bowman. "Sad for your listeners but happy for you to start another chapter. ‘Til June!! Cheers."

Added Tamara Klatsky Epstein, "I can’t imagine the radio waves in CT without you! Enjoy all the wonderful adventures in your future- they are well deserved! Thank you for all your years of entertainment and blessed service to the children."

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