Chris Russo Reflects on Leaving WFAN

Chris “Mad Dog” Russo, an iconic figure at WFAN, made a notable return to the station on Friday as a guest. Russo’s appearance stirred conversations, particularly about his departure from WFAN 16 years ago.

Russo joined WFAN’s midday show with Brandon Tierney and Sal Licata, broadcasting live from Fanatics Fest in New York City. It was clear that Tierney and Licata were thrilled to have him on the show, signaling their enthusiasm with a photo shared on X.

Since leaving WFAN after two decades in 2008, Russo has achieved considerable success. He is best known for his role at SiriusXM’s Mad Dog Sports Radio and his engaging performances on First Take. Reflecting on his decision to leave, he acknowledged the challenge it posed.

His popular show, Mike and the Mad Dog, co-hosted with Mike Francesa, was a major hit in local ratings and had a loyal following. However, the relationship between the two hosts was strained. When Russo signed a multiyear deal with Sirius and XM in 2008, he cited personal reasons and denied that Francesa was a factor.

On Friday, Russo offered a more nuanced perspective.

“It was a hard call. … It was a very tough call,” Russo said. “As it turns out, the first couple of years were tough. I think it was good for Mike because Mike could show that he could do it — high ratings without me. And I needed a different challenge. So, I think overall, I think it was the proper decision for the both of us. It was a good move at the time.”

Tierney posed the question on everyone’s mind.

“But if the relationship was better at the time, you wouldn’t have left?”

Russo candidly responded, “I probably wouldn’t have left.”

Russo also revealed he had considered switching to another slot at WFAN.

“I’m not sure if my act would have worked in the morning, though,” Russo said. “Because I would have done a straight sports show … I’m not sure if it would have worked because I would have probably tried to do it along the lines of the same thing.

“I mean, I think all in all, it was the right move for me, and it was the right move for [Mike].”

It’s intriguing to ponder what might have transpired if Russo had remained at WFAN. Interestingly, in 2022, Francesa revealed that Stephen A. Smith was one of the candidates considered to replace Russo.

Source: Barrett Sports Media, BarrettMedia.com, Awful Announcing