In the fast-paced world of sports media, second chances are rare—but for Gregg Bell, patience and perseverance paid off in a big way. Just over a year ago, Seattle sports radio station 93.3 KJR passed over the longtime Tacoma News Tribune Seahawks beat reporter for its vacant midday host role, instead bringing in Marc James. Bell, who had been filling the slot for nearly ten months, took the news in stride and continued delivering his morning hits for the station, never losing sight of the bigger picture.
"Rich Moore [KJR Program Director] always told me that you never know and things could change," Bell reflected. "I was willing to do that, because I have a first job. It takes up a good bit of my time. It’s not like I was twiddling my thumbs waiting on KJR to call me back about a full time job."
Fast forward 14 months, and another round of layoffs hit iHeartMedia, the parent company of KJR. James was let go, leaving the midday slot open once again. This time, the station knew exactly who to turn to. Bell’s unwavering dedication—both to his Seahawks coverage and his on-air contributions—had never gone unnoticed.
"When iHeartMedia made a decision that KJR had to trim a position, Rich Moore asked me if I wanted to host a 10am-12pm show," Bell explained. "I wasn’t coming in from far away, because I was talking to him all the time."
The transition was swift. Less than a week after James’ final show, Bell was announced as the new midday host. Without a formal contract, he stepped into the role, fully aware of the unpredictable nature of the industry.
"I’ve been in business long enough to know it changes in a hurry," Bell said. "So, I made the decision to keep my head down and continue my work for KJR. Always doing what they asked me to do. To be a good team player, and that opportunities might come down the road."
For Bell, this isn’t just a win for his career—it’s a testament to the value of staying true to your craft, even when the odds seem stacked against you. And for Seattle sports fans, it means a familiar, trusted voice is back where he belongs.
