Cumulus Media, owner of Houston radio station, files for bankruptcy

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Cumulus Media, the Atlanta-based company that owns Houston radio station 104.1 KRBE, has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in the Southern District of Texas as part of a plan to restructure hundreds of millions of dollars in debt. The company said the move is intended to address its debt efficiently with no disruption to its operations, employees, and strategies.

Why it matters

The bankruptcy filing highlights the ongoing challenges facing the traditional radio industry as it contends with the rise of streaming audio and digital platforms. Cumulus, which operates 394 radio stations nationwide, cited changes in the advertising market and declining radio audiences as factors behind its decision to restructure.

The details

Cumulus said the restructuring would eliminate about $592 million of the company's roughly $697 million debt. If approved by a bankruptcy judge, the plan would transfer ownership of the company to its lenders. The company also pointed to an ongoing dispute with Nielsen Audio, which provides ratings data broadcasters use to sell advertising, as a contributing factor to its financial troubles.

• Cumulus Media filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection on Thursday, March 5, 2026.
• A bankruptcy court hearing to confirm the company's restructuring plan is expected by April 15, 2026.

What they’re saying

What’s next

A bankruptcy court hearing to confirm Cumulus Media's restructuring plan is expected by April 15, 2026. The company said it expects to emerge from bankruptcy after receiving approval from the court and required regulatory clearance from the Federal Communications Commission.