Michael Savage out at KNEW

Michael Savage is OUT at KNEW.

The controversial, SF-based radio host, who according to Talkers magazine is the third most-listened-to personality, did his last show yesterday. The program was dropped this morning.

John Scott, program director of the station said in a e-mail that the station was "headed in a new direction and a new mind set at this station. Savage does not fit in any longer."

BOTTOM LINE: The real story, like everything else at Clear Channel is money. In Savage's case, his million-dollar salary was the main reason he was let go. Clear Channel is in fiscal purgatory, like may other broadcast companies and anyone who makes that kind of coin is subject to getting axed. Savage was in that category.

Another small matter too: I'm told beyond money, (and that's about 98% of it here) was major Clear Channel mgt. brass' irritation at Savage's frequent taped shows of late. Developing story.

Watch this site for more updated information.