Rick and Bubba Show ending at year’s end

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (WBRC/Gray News) - The nationally syndicated Rick and Bubba Show is coming to an end.

The announcement happened during Thursday’s morning radio show, which is broadcast by more than 70 radio affiliates.

“We got a long runway. We got a whole year to spend together, reminisce, talk and I think that’s where we we all agree. That’s where we need to focus on celebrating, you know, all that’s taken place,” said Rick Burgess.

The Birmingham-based program began with Burgess and Bill “Bubba” Bussey on Jan. 8, 1994.

Then-Republican presidential candidate and former House Speaker Newt Gingrich talks with Rick... — Then-Republican presidential candidate and former House Speaker Newt Gingrich talks with Rick Burgess, center, and Bill "Bubba" Bussey, during the Rick & Bubba radio show, Tuesday, March 13, 2012, in Vestavia, Ala.(AP Photo/Butch Dill)

“We are all fine here, we are all friends we will remain friends. Rick has honored his commitment to me, and this show, and I have honored my commitment to this show. Like you guys, there is nothing bad here, it’s just been a wonderful long run, and it had to end sometime. And this is the time. I hate it, and really I wish we could go on a few more years. It would have been a better arrangement in a lot of ways, but we don’t always get to pick,” said Bussey.

The show will continue through the end of 2024, but the radio personalities say this isn’t retirement.

“Let me be clear, unfortunately, we’re not in any position to retire. But, I mean, so this show is at its end, but I think we’re both going to be out there trying to continue to go on. I think I kind of know what I’m going to do. Bubba is trying to figure out what he’s going to do. I don’t think any of us are going to retire,” said Burgess.