If The Shoe Fitz: As first reported last night (12/18) via Breaking News, Hubbard KNUC/Seattle morning host and nationally syndicated personality Fitz has been named permanent host of the newly rebranded Bob Kingsley's Country Top 40 With Fitz. The multi-year partnership between Hubbard and Nan Kingsley's KCCS Productions will launch the show across more than 300 stations Jan. 4-5, with the 85 stations currently carrying The Hit List With Fitz transitioning to CT40 beginning in January. "All of us at Hubbard are humbled by Nan's trust in our ability to continue their great legacy," says Hubbard CEO Ginny Morris.

As part of the transition, longtime writer Rob Simbeck has retired, but will continue to take on project work in addition to his book/writing endeavors; reach him here. Network sales and distribution will be led by Skyview Networks, and other CT40 production team members including Producer Ken Halford, Chief Engineer Roger Ramsey, GM/Affiliate Sales Lead Shawn Studer, Assoc. Producer/Archivist Barbara Lyon and writer/interviewer Deborah Evans Price remain with the show. For inquiries regarding market availability, contact Studer here. Fitz may be reached via his agent, CAA's Michael Bryan, here.

Bob Kingsley's Country Top 40 has been guest hosted by artists (CAT 10/23) since shortly before Kingsley's passing in October (Chronicle 10/17). "[Bob's] loss is still sinking in, but I am honored to be taking the reins from the man who instilled in me a lifelong love of country music and the love of the 'countdown,'" says Fitz. "This moment is surreal, and I do not take the responsibility lightly. I am excited and honored to carry his torch and hope that I can do for the next generation of country music fans what the legendary Bob Kingsley did for me." Adds KCCS Pres./CEO Nan Kingsley, "Having a chance to sit with Fitz, who so eloquently shared his passion for Bob and the show, leaves me feeling excited and encouraged about the next iteration of Country Top 40."