KCAL, a well-known classic rock radio station in Southern California’s Inland Empire, will eliminate its on-air DJ positions as it transitions to a fully automated music format starting August 1. The station’s parent company, Anaheim Broadcasting Corporation, announced the change, emphasizing a continuous stream of classic rock music without interruptions.

Chief Operating Officer Kelly Sanders described the shift as a way to provide listeners with uninterrupted access to the rock music that defined the station’s legacy. In a statement, Sanders highlighted KCAL’s strong connection to the Inland Empire and framed the move as an effort to honor the station’s history by focusing solely on the genre’s key songs and artists.

The decision results in the layoffs of more than a dozen on-air personalities, including longtime hosts John DeSantis, Nikki Preston, and Patrick Tish. The company did not specify whether there would be opportunities for these individuals elsewhere within the organization.

KCAL has been a staple in the region’s radio landscape for many years, known for its classic rock programming combined with live personalities. The shift to an automated format reflects a broader industry trend toward streamlined operations and music-centric broadcasts, though it marks the end of an era for the station’s on-air talent.