Controversial conservative talk show host Rush Limbaugh is most likely going to have his radio show dropped by Cumulus Media, along with Sean Hannity's show, according to Politico.
A source told Politico that Cumulus was planning on not renewing the contracts of either two highest rated talk show hosts. Premiere Networks, a division of Clear Channel that distributes both shows, and Cumulus had been involved in intense negotiations that appear to have blown up.
When Limbaugh went on the air Monday he refuted the possibility of him leaving the air, according to the Los Angeles Times.
"Someday I am looking so forward to being able to detail all of this for you, but suffice to say nothing is gonna happen that you will notice," Limbaugh told his listeners. "Nothing is going to change. You are gonna be able to get this radio program on as many, if not more, radio stations down the road than it's on now, and what you're being treated to is just a public business negotiation."
The has been a rift between Limbaugh and Cumulus since at least May when the CEO of Cumulus, Lew Dickey, blamed Limbaugh for part of the company's decline in revenue. Many of the 40 stations that broadcast Limbaugh's show lost advertising money after a dozen advertisers pulled their ads from the show after Limbaugh called Georgetown law student Sandra Fluke a slut, according to the Los Angeles Times.
Hannity also responded to the Politico report on his program Monday, refuting the claims that it might go of the air much like Limbaugh did.
"Business has never been better thanks to all of you out there," Hannity said. "But lent not your heart be troubled. There are forces at work here that I will explain in due course, I promise. I just can't really explain it now. I'm not trying to be mysterious here but it's something that is unfolding and I am frankly excited about it all and we'll keep you up to speed as soon as I can, I promise."
Even if this is just a public contract negotiation Cumulus has been looking at potential replacements for the two hosts. Sources told Politico that they would most likely fill the vacancies with talent they already have under contract. This means that Mike Huckabee, Mark Levin and Michael Savage are all prime candidates should Cumulus actually part ways with Limbaugh, according to Politico.
Limbaugh told his audience that his show will only get bigger, not disappear, according to the Los Angeles Times.
"I just want to assure you, everything's cool, and as always, what's on the table for this program is growth," Limbaugh said.
