Dark Star, a radio staple at WCCO-AM for 25 years, accepted a buyout Tuesday from the radio station, and will no longer be doing his night-time show. Star, whose real name is George Chapple, said management's offer was more generous than he expected and triggered his decision to leave, 17 months before his contract expired.

"I stole every second I was ever on the air," he said. "I had the time of my life. It was a lot of fun."

It was unclear who would fill the 9 p.m.-1 a.m. time slot long held by "Sports Night With Dark Star." Calls to the radio station were not returned. It's also unclear how expansive the station's buyout offer is -- and who else might take it.

Star, whose downhome style charmed some listeners and annoyed others, will continue to contribute to "The Sports Show" on WUCW, Ch. 23, and work part-time at Canterbury Park. He's also contemplating a job offer in Las Vegas.

NEAL JUSTIN