Chicago news radio pioneer john hultman, voice of a generation, dies at 89

John Hultman, a mainstay of Chicago radio for nearly six decades and a key architect of the all-news format, has died at age 89. His passing marks the end of an era for WBBM Newsradio and a significant loss for local broadcasting.

Hultman helped launch the all-news era at wbbm

Hultman, known for his steady voice and deep connection with listeners, was a fixture at WBBM Newsradio for over 40 years. He began his career in radio and television in the 1960s, eventually joining WBBM in 1968 as the station transitioned to a 24-hour news format—a move spurred by CBS's successful experiment in New York.

He rose to become news director in 1972, a position he held until 1982, all while remaining on the air. Hultman's most recognizable role was as the morning drive anchor, a position he held for nearly two decades, alongside co-anchor Felicia Middlebrooks beginning in 1984. His ability to seamlessly return to the microphone after periods away from the newsroom was legendary.

Hultman’s career wasn’t without dramatic moments. He reported live from the crash site of Flight 191 near O'Hare International Airport in 1979, a harrowing assignment that kept him reporting from 5 a.m. until 9 p.m. that day. The dedication he displayed defined his tenure.

Even after retiring from anchoring in 1998, Hultman’s connection to WBBM Newsradio remained strong. He returned to the morning drive slot in 2008 and continued to contribute as a fill-in anchor and reporter until 2020.

Colleagues remembered Hultman fondly on social media Monday. WBBM Newsradio anchor Rob Hart noted Hultman’s ability to