Image via kmjnow.com

After a nearly 50-year career, more than 30 of which were spent serving the Central Valley, 580 KMJ afternoon radio host, longtime Fresno media host and behind-the-scenes personality E Curtis Johnson announced his retirement Wednesday.

Johnson, who joined KMJ in 2023 and hosted afternoons with Philip Teresi, enjoyed a long career in programming, serving the Valley at Rock 105.1 The Blaze KKBZ (now Caliente 105.1). He also served as Director of Programming at One Putt Broadcasting, a position he held from 2008 until 2014, as well as an 18-year stint as PD of Rock 103.7 KRZR from 1989 to 2007.

Johnson also worked in other California markets, assuming programming roles in Bakersfield, Modesto and San Luis Obispo, as well as out-of-state markets including Fairbanks, AK and Columbia, SC.

Johnson cited unexpected health issues as the reason behind the difficult decision to retire.

“I was truly excited to get the gig here at KMJ a little over two years ago,” Johnson said. “I’ve enjoyed working with Philip and the entire staff has welcomed me as one of their own.”

Johnson had anticipated remaining at KMJ for longer, but made the decision to retain his personal health and quality of life.

“I will miss this team,” Johnson added.

Blake Taylor, program director at KMJ, and co-host Philip Teresi thanked Johnson for his time, praising his unique skill set and its impact on the station’s listeners.

“E. Curtis Johnson gave me my first job in radio,” Teresi said. “It was an absolute pleasure to have this full-circle experience, sharing the past two years with him as my partner on KMJ.”