Hot 97 has announced new hosts for its morning show slot, stirring significant reactions following the cancellation of Ebro In The Morning. The new lineup features Ronndell Smith, Lana Harris, and Million, who will not be taking over the New York-based program as many had speculated. Instead, they will host a daily live national television show based in Atlanta, set to premiere in January 2024.
The announcement was made via an Instagram post that highlighted the trio’s media backgrounds. Smith is known for his work as an actor and comedian, while Harris has over a decade of experience in journalism. Million has gained recognition as an interviewer and content creator. Despite their qualifications, the response from the public has been mixed, with some expressing disappointment over the selection.
Among the notable critics are rapper and podcaster Joe Budden and Hot 97 employee Funk Flex. Budden shared his frustrations on social media, stating, “Not even doing this with them today lol,” while Flex reacted with crying-laughing emojis on the same announcement. Their comments reflect a broader sentiment among some listeners who feel the new hosts do not match the stature of the previous team, which included Ebro, Peter Rosenberg, and Laura Stylez.
As backlash mounted, Smith, Harris, and Million addressed the situation with humor and resilience. They engaged with comments left by critics, playfully countering assumptions about their roles. While some remain skeptical, others have come to their defense, drawing comparisons to the initial reception of other successful shows, such as The Breakfast Club. One user remarked, “They actually sound like a morning radio show crew… Leave these kids alone.”
Despite the criticism, the new hosts are poised to make their mark in Atlanta. The public’s reaction to their upcoming show remains to be seen, especially in light of the established legacy left by Ebro and his team. The former host has openly criticized the circumstances surrounding the cancellation of Ebro In The Morning, suggesting that political motivations may have influenced the decision. He stated, “They need my sh*t-talking, anti-Netanyahu, anti-government, progressive sh*t out the way, bro.”
With the new show set to debut soon, both the public and the former cast are watching closely. It remains uncertain how the new hosts will adapt to their roles and whether they can cultivate a loyal audience in a landscape that has already seen significant upheaval. As the date approaches, listeners will undoubtedly be eager to see how this new chapter unfolds for Hot 97.
