WKRP Radio Station to Revive Iconic Call Sign in Cincinnati

The classic TV sitcom's call letters will be brought to life on a new low-power radio station.

Apr. 11, 2026 at 6:56pm

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An abstract, minimalist composition featuring bold, jagged shapes in red, white, and black, representing the iconic WKRP call sign and the nostalgic spirit of the classic TV sitcom.The WKRP call sign's potential return to the Cincinnati airwaves evokes the enduring appeal of media nostalgia and the power of community radio.Cincinnati Today

The iconic WKRP call sign from the classic 1970s TV sitcom is set to make a comeback on the airwaves in Cincinnati. D.P. McIntire, a media nonprofit leader, acquired the WKRP call sign from the FCC in 2014 and launched WKRP-LP, a low-power radio station that pays homage to the show's irreverent and nostalgic spirit. However, the station's future is now uncertain as the WKRP call sign may be sold to a new radio station in the city.

Why it matters

The WKRP radio station is a testament to the enduring power of media nostalgia and the potential for community radio to create unique, locally-focused experiences. The story raises questions about how to balance the preservation of beloved fictional legacies with the need for innovation and change in the radio industry.

The details

WKRP-LP went live in 2015 with a format that pays tribute to the classic TV show, playing music from the 70s, 80s, and 90s. The station's approach is irreverent and satirical, just like the original series, with a focus on community engagement and local content. However, the potential sale of the WKRP call sign to a new radio station in Cincinnati could change the station's future direction.

  • D.P. McIntire acquired the WKRP call sign from the FCC in 2014.
  • WKRP-LP launched in 2015 with its nostalgic radio format.
  • The potential sale of the WKRP call sign to a new Cincinnati radio station is currently being negotiated.

The players

D.P. McIntire

A media nonprofit leader who acquired the WKRP call sign from the FCC in 2014 and launched WKRP-LP, a low-power radio station that pays homage to the classic TV sitcom.

WKRP-LP

A low-power radio station in Cincinnati that launched in 2015 with a format focused on 70s, 80s, and 90s music, as well as community engagement and local content.

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What’s next

The future of the WKRP radio station is uncertain as the WKRP call sign may be sold to a new radio station in Cincinnati, raising questions about the balance between preserving media nostalgia and allowing for innovation and change in the industry.

The takeaway

The WKRP radio station is a unique example of how media nostalgia can be leveraged to create a community-focused, locally-engaged radio experience. The story highlights the enduring appeal of beloved fictional creations and the potential for them to inspire new and meaningful ventures.