Hoppy Kercheval, the longtime host of MetroNews’ “Talkline,” will be retiring from that role at the start of the year although he will remain in several capacities including on-air appearances and regular commentaries.
The “Talkline” host role will be filled by veteran broadcasters Dave Wilson in Morgantown and T.J. Meadows in Charleston.
Kercheval told listeners about his impending retirement from the show at the end of today’s edition of “Talkline.”
“It is hard to step away from the show that has meant so much to me, but I have confidence in Dave and T.J.,” Kercheval said.
“They are professionals who share my passion for bringing relevant and compelling stories to our state.”
The change takes place Jan. 6 of the coming new year.
“Talkline” has long served as a town square for West Virginians to discuss politics, government, culture and sports. Kercheval has been the host over the full run of the statewide show, now available on radio, streaming, podcast and MetroNews Television.
Kercheval will continue with a once-a-week commentary, occasional guest appearances on “Talkline,” coaching news and sports personnel, working on special projects and continuing to contribute to the “3 Guys Before the Game” podcast.
“With this announcement, Hoppy has decided to reduce his role at WVRC Media and ‘Talkline,’” said George Pelletier, president and chief executive of the company.
“He has been a fixture in West Viginia’s media for 49 years. His commitment to doing things right as well as his uncanny ability to ask the important questions, is what makes him and Talkline so trusted and popular.”
Dave Wilson, the host of “Talk of the Town” in Morgantown, has been a regular substitute host of “Talkline” when Kercheval has been away. Wilson is a St. Mary’s native and a graduate of Marshall University.
Additionally, Wilson has been part of the MetroNews’ Sports team providing play-by-play coverage of high school athletics and part of the Marshall Thundering Herd Sports Network.
Meadows, a Teays Valley resident, most recently worked as director of federal policy for American Electric Power, one of the nation’s largest electric utilities. He has also served as a guest host for “Talkline” in the past. Meadows graduated from West Virginia University and earned his masters in business from The University of Charleston.
“Although Dave and TJ will be new to hosting Talkline on a daily basis, both have had extensive experience with the show,” Pelletier said.
“We are excited to have two seasoned veterans to assist us in the next chapter of Talkline.”