Greg Papa’s Layoff from KNBR Sparks Public Backlash

Longtime Bay Area sports radio host Greg Papa, the lead play‑by‑play voice for the San Francisco 49ers, was let go by KNBR in August 2026. The dismissal came as part of a midday programming shake‑up that replaced his "Papa & Silver" show with veteran host John Lund. Papa had been recovering from acute lymphoblastic leukemia, a bone‑marrow transplant, and related lung complications, and had signed a multiyear deal with the station earlier that year.

Cumulus Media, which owns KNBR, issued a statement saying it could not comment on the specifics of the departure but expressed gratitude for Papa’s contributions and said the company was exploring ways to bring his voice back. The statement drew criticism on social media, with listeners questioning the decision to fire a broadcaster battling serious health issues.

Papa confirmed he is now cancer‑free but continues to face physical recovery challenges. The controversy highlights tensions between corporate cost‑cutting measures and public sentiment toward a beloved local sports figure.