An Evening with WBZ News Radio’s Dan Rea
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As most people are relaxing in their homes and Boston traffic is winding down for the night, Boston broadcast legend Dan Rea is just getting warmed up. It’s 7:45PM and he’s simultaneously finishing his show prep, touching base with his producers, “putting out fires” on the phone, and small talking with me. The way he multitasks reminds me of Tom Hanks’ depiction of Congressman Charlie Wilson – seamlessly entering and exiting conversations without ever asking “where were we?” or “what was I saying?” And he does it all with a smile on his face, and a warmth that Bostonians have enjoyed for over three decades.
Dan Rea is the host of WBZ News Radio’s “Nightside,” heard in 38 states (and over the internet) every Monday thru Friday from 8PM-12AM. He made the jump to radio after thirty one years as an on-air television reporter for WBZ-TV (Boston’s CBS affiliate) where he won numerous awards for excellence. The defining moment of his career occurred, ironically, during his final day on-air when he announced that Joe Salvati (and three other men), after thirty years of imprisonment, had finally been exonerated of a murder they did not commit. Rea had led a fifteen year crusade against a corrupt Boston F.B.I. office that knowingly, and intentionally, framed four innocent men. The court’s decision to award the men over $100 million dollars in restitution has so far been upheld. However, U.S. Attorney General Eric Holder is expected to appeal to the U.S. Supreme Court. (I think a personal apology from the President of the United States himself would be more appropriate, don’t you?) Maybe Dan can pass the message along – he’s personally interviewed every president since Gerald Ford.
Rea’s in-studio guest is State Senator (and U.S. Senate hopeful) Scott Brown. Husband to WCVB TV’s Gail Huff, and father to American Idol semi-finalist Ayla Brown, the Republican underdog makes for an interesting guest. In a state dominated by the Democratic party, Brown, a Republican, fields questions from Rea (and callers) for over an hour. The rest of the show is a hodgepodge of political correctness tales from across the country.
The “Nightside” team includes producer Bradley Jay (replaced for this show by Peter Clark) and Joe Dunn. However, Rea’s true sidekick is his dog, Charlie, who periodically interrupts his sleep and “sawmill” snoring to drink water out of a stainless steel bowl. Together, the team plans segments, books guests, and funnels callers. They also check facts and surf for breaking news/interesting stories to share with the audience. And they, like Rea, seem to have a good time doing it.
Talk radio’s popularity is at an all-time high and, according to Rea, represents “North America’s Virtual Back Porch.” But, unlike most of the ideologically-driven, one-sided shows that flood today’s airways, “Nightside” is a marketplace of ideas where all are welcome. In fact, those with opposing views are typically given the most airtime. (That person during my time in the studio was “Ron from Andover” whose call took up almost fifteen minutes.) There are only a few simple rules: (1) don’t be rude, (2) don’t answer questions with questions, and (3) don’t talk over other people. The result is a provocative, well-balanced, PG-13 exchange.
Before I left the studio, I asked Dan if he missed TV. He said “no” without hesitation. I then asked if he wished he’d jumped to radio earlier in his career. He thought for a moment and shook his head back and forth as he answered. “No, I was happy to end my TV career announcing that Solvati was exonerated. That was a good way to end things.”
Dan Rea’s Facebook profile is right here. Add him to your list to receive information about upcoming guests and discussion topics.
Comments and criticism are welcome.
About the Author: Randall H. Miller is an American college educator/blogger. He is also a former U.S. Army officer (82nd Airborne) with a M.A. in Diplomacy (focusing on International Terrorism) and a B.A. in Criminal Justice. Use the form on the right to sign up and receive notifications of new content. The words and ideas expressed here are 100% his own and not those of his employers or affiliated organizations.
Daniel | Dec 3, 2009 | Reply
Good read…
Daniel Williams | Dec 4, 2009 | Reply
Was only vaguely familiar with Dan Rea – thanks for bringing him into better focus.
Ed Thompson | Feb 18, 2010 | Reply
Hello Dan,
We were so saddened to hear of the loss of your beloved dog Charlie. We are extreme dog lovers and members of the New England Old English Sheepdog Rescue club. As such we have and, like you adore our OES (that’s short for Old English Sheepdog). Having lost two of these wonderful companions in the past, we know what you are going through. We both highly respect you and what you stand for on your broadcasts and listen as often as possible. Thanks so much for being there each night. We hope you are able to find a new faithful companion as soon as you are ready to do so. Best wishes and keep up the good work!
Mary & Ed Thompson
Cathleen | Feb 18, 2010 | Reply
Dan, so very sorry about Charlie he was special to you and your family and the WBZ family too. I have had that terrible decision to make 18 months ago to my 6 year old Kerry Blue Terrier Rosie.
I got a puppy about 9 months ago she is adorable and a very different dog from Rosie she is a Springer Doodle her name is Gabby and she has brought me great joy.
When you are ready I know you will bring another companion into your life.
Dick Mac Donald | Aug 5, 2010 | Reply
Dan, Several weeks ago I contacted you about the Town of Arlington not allowing the American Flag and the pledge of Allegiance in their classrooms! There was Senior at Arlington trying to corrrect this abomination and insult. I personally contacted many veterans organizations in the area and asked them to support his efforts. The students name is Sean Harrinton. Good news !! I heard yesterday that the Town of Arlington voted to put the American Flags back and start the school year with the Pledge of Allegiance lead by HIMSELF, Sean Harrington. I would like to see him congratulated for his truly Patriotic and leadership efforts.
GOD BLESS AMERICA AGAIN
Dick Mac Donald 442 Central Ave Needham, MA
Phyllis Robbins | Aug 6, 2010 | Reply
Dan, Your health plan sounds terrific – and “Obamacare” as you call it has just made it better by allowing your kids to remain on your policy until they are 25 – surely a benefit, especially to many who are struggling. Also, what does “vote up or down” mean? It’s just a survey or poll, isn’t it? You didn’t explain that such a vote would not have any actual effect on the federal law.