Barnard does a 180 on leaving KQ

Article by: Star Tribune
Updated: December 9, 2009 - 5:21 PM

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Tom Barnard, disc jockey and radio show host.

Photo: Tom Sweeney, Star Tribune file

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Tom Barnard, the Twin Cities' most popular broadcaster, apparently has decided not to quit his KQ92 morning show after all.

"I will be at K.Q. until they fire me or I drop over in my tracks," Barnard, 57, wrote on his Facebook page Tuesday night.

In late September, Barnard said he would leave the FM oldies rock station KQRS at the end of 2012, adding, "I just don't fit into the show anymore. The corporate climate is not what I signed up for."

Since Barnard's show debuted in 1986, it has gone on to dominate local morning radio. Barnard's politically incorrect show has often gotten him into trouble, while drawing record listenership numbers.

In his Facebook comments, Barnard said he reversed course after "many weeks of discussion" with his wife and others, including a "very bright friend of mine." He said that friend told him, "If there is any proof in this world that there is a God it is the life you have because of the unwavering support of K.Q. listeners. Only an idiot would walk away from that."

Barnard then thanked his listeners for their "unbelievable support" and added that money had no role in changing his mind. PAUL WALSH