Jeff Dauler update (though there’s no news yet)
I was stunned by the amount of interest in the Jeff Dauler situation. That does prove how popular the Bert Show is. Most of the comments about Jeff were positive, which I'm sure he's relieved. But he felt obligated to defend traffic reader Wendy Adams (left), who took a beating from commenters in Monday's blog entry. Jeff used his Web site today to defend Wendy. In part:
I don't agree with what people have been writing, and I am sick that Wendy has been subjected to such cruel commentary because of something connected to me. She works a miserable split shift, always has a great attitude, and goes above and beyond without complaint, and has earned her slot on the show through hard work. I don't share your views, and think I am more qualified to pass judgment because I see her every day (or saw her every day) and have worked with her for years. She's also become a great friend of both Jessica's and mine. If it bothers you that much, use the buttons on your radio. But don't use the shadows of the internet to be cruel for no reason.
On her Facebook page, Wendy today wrote: “Thanks to everyone for taking the time to send really sweet comments & messages both yesterday and today. Definitely put a smile on my face.”
He also said in terms of his contract, “it’s not all about money.” Note he said “all.” He is saying there are other issues besides pay. The second-biggest issue, typically after salary and benefits is length of contract. Perhaps he wants a longer contract than they’re willing to give as well — or in a less likely scenerio, a shorter one in hopes revenues bounce back up and he could get more cash down the road.
Revenues are down across the board in radio. The Cumulus top dogs are likely offering him a big pay cut despite the fact the show is doing better than it ever has in terms of ratings. That’s tough to stomach. Yet who has more leverage at this point? Jeff’s in a bind and time is running out. He has until Friday to decide what to do.
Jeff texted me today when I asked him about the length of contract. He said the sticking issue isn't something obvious, that it's "random." We may never know what that "random" problem is. Cumulus VP of programming John Dickey has told listeners via email he wants Jeff back but under what terms? He isn't saying.
Two fans have already posted comparable Facebook pages in support of Jeff. There's one called "Keep Jeff on the Bert Show" and another "Bring Back Jeff Dauler!" As of 7:41 p.m., the two sites now have about 270 fans combined.
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About the Author
Rodney Ho writes about entertainment for The Atlanta Journal-Constitution including TV, radio, film, comedy and all things in between. A native New Yorker, he has covered education at The Virginian-Pilot, small business for The Wall Street Journal and a host of beats at the AJC over 20-plus years. He loves tennis, pop culture & seeing live events.
