Published: March 22, 2025
Chicago, IL — Dan Bernstein, a prominent figure in Chicago sports radio, has been terminated from his position at 670 The Score following a contentious social media incident. The station announced Bernstein’s departure during the midday show on March 21, with Vice President and Brand Manager Mitch Rosen delivering the news.
“We want to share some important news with our Score listeners, partners, and teammates,” Rosen stated on-air. “We are announcing today that Dan Bernstein no longer works at The Score. We wish him nothing but the best and thank him for his time and service.
The Incident Leading to Termination
The controversy began when Bernstein posted a photo of a fish he had caught, sparking a dispute with another user on the social media platform X (formerly Twitter). The user accused Bernstein of killing the fish, which led to a heated exchange. In response, Bernstein threatened to publicly disclose the individual’s personal information—a practice known as “doxing.” He escalated the situation by mentioning the person’s children and employment history. These actions prompted swift backlash and raised ethical concerns.
Immediate Repercussions
Following the incident, Bernstein faced immediate consequences. He was placed on a week-long suspension from The Score. Additionally, Camp One Step by Children’s Oncology Services, a charity organization where Bernstein served on the board of directors, removed him from his position, stating that his comments did not align with their mission and values.
Career and Contributions
Dan Bernstein’s career at 670 The Score spanned nearly three decades, beginning in 1995. He started as an anchor and reporter before co-hosting the “Boers and Bernstein” show with Terry Boers from 1999 to 2016. The program became one of Chicago’s most popular sports talk shows, known for its candid discussions and in-depth analysis. After Boers’ retirement, Bernstein continued to host various time slots, most recently the midday show alongside co-hosts such as Leila Rahimi and Marshall Harris.
Past Controversies
This incident is not the first time Bernstein has faced public scrutiny. In 2015, he and former co-host Matt Spiegel made disparaging comments about a female sports reporter, referring to her as having a “giant boob.” Both hosts issued apologies following the backlash. More recently, in September 2024, Bernstein was involved in an on-air exchange with a Barstool Sports personality over the use of his last name, leading to a feud with Barstool founder Dave Portnoy and an influx of prank calls to his show.
Industry Reactions
The radio industry and listeners have had mixed reactions to Bernstein’s departure. Some colleagues expressed sadness over the situation, acknowledging his contributions to sports radio. Former co-host Terry Boers commented, “I’m sad for Dan and for the radio station. They had no choice because the mighty X is America’s human-resources department.”
Conversely, critics argue that Bernstein’s actions warranted termination, emphasizing the importance of professionalism, both on-air and online. The incident has sparked discussions about the responsibilities of public figures on social media and the potential consequences of their interactions.
Future of the Midday Slot
As of now, 670 The Score has not announced who will permanently fill the midday slot previously occupied by Bernstein. The station may consider internal promotions or seek external talent to maintain its strong listener base. Listeners have expressed curiosity and concern about the future direction of the program, highlighting Bernstein’s significant impact on Chicago sports radio.
Conclusion
Dan Bernstein’s departure from 670 The Score marks the end of an era for the station and its audience. The incident serves as a reminder of the evolving landscape of media, where personal conduct on social platforms can have profound professional ramifications. As the station moves forward, it faces the challenge of preserving its legacy while adapting to changing expectations in the digital age.
