John Boy & Billy's Big Show Signing Off After Decades

Get ready to say goodbye to a morning radio tradition: John Boy Isley and Billy James are retiring "The Big Show" at the end of the year. Here's what you need to know about the duo's long run and what's next.

TL;DR

The legendary "Big Show with John Boy & Billy" is officially ending its run on December 31, 2025.
Co-hosts John Boy Isley and Billy James have entertained listeners for over four decades, at one point reaching more than 100 stations nationwide.
Fans can stay connected with John Boy and Billy by following their Facebook page, as the duo promises "we're going to do something!"

A Long and Legendary Run for the Morning Duo Begins

For millions across the South and Midwest, starting the day has meant tuning into the comedic stylings and rock-country blend of "The Big Show with John Boy & Billy." This iconic radio program, hosted by John Boy Isley and Billy James, has been a staple of morning commutes and early risers for decades, building a multi-generational following.

The duo first teamed up on the airwaves in Charlotte, North Carolina. While some reports cite their launch as 1980, multiple sources confirm John Isley and Billy James began their joint journey in 1981, hosting mornings on 107.9 WBCY Charlotte. Their unique blend of humor and segments quickly resonated with listeners, paving the way for a remarkable career.

From Charlotte Airwaves to National Syndication Success Story

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The success of "The Big Show" wasn't confined to a single city. In 1986, John Boy and Billy moved their show to 99.7 The Fox (WRFX) in Charlotte, a station that would become their long-time flagship. Their popularity continued to soar, and by 1993, the show embarked on national syndication, a major milestone for any radio program.

Their reach expanded dramatically in the early 2000s when they partnered with Premiere Networks. At its peak, "The Big Show with John Boy & Billy" was broadcast on over 100 stations across the country, a testament to their widespread appeal. Listeners loved their comedy bits, which were so popular that the duo even released 23 comedy albums through the 80s and into the 2000s.

Producer Jackie Curry-Lynch perfectly encapsulated this dedication, noting, "A major thank you to all our listeners. There are kids who have been listening since junior high school, and parents who have had their kids and grandkids listen. We could not have done it all these years without the listeners."

The End of an Era: What We Know About the Finale

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However, all good things must come to an end. The news that "The Big Show with John Boy & Billy" will cease production by the end of 2025 has been met with mixed emotions by fans. The announcement came indirectly, first surfacing through a job posting by Midwest Communications Classic Rock 103.5 WIMZ in Knoxville, Tennessee, which stated: "With the legendary John Boy and Billy Network signing off on December 31, we’re seizing the opportunity to create something truly unique and embedded in the community."

This development follows a change from last year when the show departed its long-standing flagship station, 99.7 The Fox (WRFX), in November. Currently, the show is broadcast Monday through Saturday from 6-10 AM and airs on 37 stations across fourteen southern and midwestern states. Some of these include WSFL-FM/Greenville, WRCQ-FM/Fayetteville, WOBR-FM/Nags Head, WROQ-FM/Greenville, WIWF-FM/Charleston, WMXT/Florence, WRKH Mobile, and WROV Roanoke.

"The Big Show will be retiring at the end of the year. I want to thank all the stations that are still carrying us, and I invite you to follow the John Boy & Billy Facebook page. So, that’s a good way to keep up with us, go ahead and start now, 'cuz… you know, we’re going to do something!"

— John Boy Isley

What's Next for John Boy, Billy, and Their Dedicated Listeners?

While the syndicated radio show is wrapping up, John Boy Isley has hinted that this isn't the absolute end for the dynamic duo. He mentioned they would remain active on "other platforms," specifically pointing to their Facebook page as a good way for listeners to keep up. This suggests that while the traditional radio format may be closing, John Boy and Billy are exploring new avenues to connect with their audience. Their promise of "we're going to do something!" leaves the door open for exciting future projects, even if it's not the same daily morning show.

For many, the end of "The Big Show" marks the close of a significant chapter in radio history. It's a reminder of the enduring power of charismatic hosts to build deep, lasting connections with listeners, becoming an integral part of their daily routines. The show's legacy, built on humor, rock, and a strong community, will surely be remembered by generations of fans.

FAQ: Your Top Questions About The Big Show's Farewell

When is the last broadcast of "The Big Show with John Boy & Billy"? The final broadcast of "The Big Show with John Boy & Billy" is scheduled for December 31, 2025. Will John Boy and Billy still be active anywhere? Yes, co-host John Boy Isley stated that they will be active on "other platforms," specifically recommending fans follow the John Boy & Billy Facebook page for future updates and projects. How long has "The Big Show" been on the air? John Boy Isley and Billy James began their morning show together in 1981, meaning the show will have been on air for 44 years by its conclusion. What stations currently carry "The Big Show with John Boy & Billy"? The show currently airs on 37 stations across fourteen southern and midwestern states. Examples mentioned include WSFL 106.5 FM in North Carolina, 106.1 WTAK-FM in Huntsville, AL, WXFX-FM in Prattville, AL, WROQ-FM Greenville SC, WSKZ Chattanooga, WIWF Charleston SC, WRKH Mobile, and WROV Roanoke.