Hot 97’s iconic Ebro in the Morning radio show came to an abrupt end on December 12, 2025, after 13 years of defining New York’s hip-hop culture. The cancellation left hosts Ebro Darden, Peter Rosenberg, and Laura Stylez reeling, especially when Drake responded with a single axe emoji that sparked fury among the morning show team.
🔥 Quick Facts
- Ebro in the Morning hosted by Ebro Darden, Peter Rosenberg, and Laura Stylez was abruptly canceled on December 12, 2025
- The show aired for 13 consecutive years, making it one of NYC’s most iconic radio programs
- Drake reacted to the cancellation with an axe emoji, prompting heated responses from Rosenberg and Ebro
- Ebro theorized the cancellation relates to casino license politics and his progressive, anti-Netanyahu stance
The Shocking End of a 13-Year Radio Empire
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After more than a decade of morning radio dominance, Ebro in the Morning disappeared from Hot 97‘s lineup without warning. The December 12 shutdown was announced immediately following the show’s final broadcast, leaving listeners and industry insiders stunned. Ebro Darden confirmed the news on X, writing cryptically: “It’s done. More to come.”
Peter Rosenberg and Laura Stylez also addressed the cancellation, with Stylez posting an emotional farewell on Instagram. She promised fans that the trio would reunite: “Best friends don’t let go… trust me, Ebro and Rosenberg and I have plans and more coming next year!”
Drake’s Controversial Axe Emoji Response Ignites Tensions
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When Drake posted an axe emoji under a post about the show’s cancellation, he seemed to celebrate what many interpreted as further conflict with Ebro Darden. The Toronto rapper has had a contentious history with the radio host over the years, making the response feel deliberately provocative. Rosenberg immediately shot back on social media, accusing the OVO Sound founder of celebrating their downfall.
Rosenberg wrote: “It’s behavior like this that has made it impossible for people to defend the wack shit that he does.” He continued with a sarcastic twist: “I truly wish you well even if you’re celebrating what you believe is our demise (spoiler alert—we’re about to be much bigger now that we won’t be held back by a company that is and has been completely lost).”
Ebro Blames Political Views and Casino Licensing Conflicts
| Cancellation Theory | Details From Ebro |
| Political Stance | Ebro’s progressive views and outspoken anti-Netanyahu commentary |
| Corporate Pressure | Station ownership tied to casino licensing negotiations |
| Financial Incentives | Need to appease venture capitalists for capital raises |
| Alleged Motive | Removal of “progressive” voices to secure business deals |
Ebro Darden didn’t hold back in explaining his theory for the cancellation. In a video circulating online, he alleged that Hot 97’s ownership, connected to casino license holders, needed him “out of the way” to raise capital and secure deals with venture capitalists. “They need my shit talking, anti-Netanyahu, anti-government, progressive shit out the way, bro,” he claimed during a heated rant.
Ebro also accused the station’s executives of abandoning the hip-hop and Black community: “They don’t give a fuck about hip-hop or Black music or the Black community. They give a fuck about access, they give a fuck about going with their little nerdy friends to concerts because that helps them raise money.”
Peter Rosenberg Fires Back at Drake and Akademiks
Peter Rosenberg expanded his criticism beyond Drake, targeting the rapper’s fanbase and allies like DJ Akademiks. Rosenberg claimed that Drake‘s modern audience consists of “weird Twitch commenters who are absolutely virgins,” a stark contrast to earlier fans he described as “attractive women who liked to party.”
Ebro took a different approach, directly labeling Drake as “right wing” on X, alongside Akademiks. The accusation came just hours after Drake‘s axe emoji post, suggesting deep frustration over the rapper’s apparent satisfaction with the cancellation.
What Happens Next for Hot 97 and the Trio?
Funkmaster Flex filled in for the morning slot on December 15, but clarified he was only covering “one day.” He praised Ebro’s legacy, posting: “20 YEARS PLUS! MD, PD, VP OF PROGRAMMING AND MORNING SHOW HOST! Your passion for music and work ethic is unmatched!”
Meanwhile, Ebro Darden, Peter Rosenberg, and Laura Stylez are pointing fans toward their YouTube channel, promising announcements about their next moves. Though their tenure at Hot 97 ended abruptly, the trio insists this marks a new beginning rather than an ending. The broadcasting world is watching to see where the iconic morning show team lands next.
Sources
- Billboard – Coverage of Drake’s reaction and host responses to show cancellation
- Complex – Peter Rosenberg’s social media statements and Ebro’s cancellation theories
- The Root – Complete timeline of Ebro in the Morning’s 13-year run and sudden exit
Daniel Harris is a specialist journalist focused on the crossroads of breaking news, extraordinary history, and enduring legends. With a background in historical research and storytelling, he blends timely reporting with timeless narratives, making complex events and ancient myths resonate with today’s readers. Daniel’s work often uncovers surprising links between present-day headlines and legendary tales, offering unique perspectives that captivate diverse audiences. Beyond reporting, he is passionate about preserving oral traditions and exploring how extraordinary stories continue to shape culture and identity.