Rabbi Dov Kramer, One of WFAN’s Longest-Tenured Figures, to Step Down After 38 Years

NEW YORK — One of the longest-serving Orthodox Jewish rabbis in New York broadcasting, Rabbi Dov Kramer is retiring after nearly four decades behind the scenes at WFAN, closing a career defined by longevity, professionalism and an unwavering commitment to his faith.

Kramer, 63, shared the news Monday as he prepared for his final full week at the station. “Awkward feeling as I head in for my final full week at WFAN,” he wrote on social media.

Raised in an Orthodox Jewish home in Kew Gardens Hills, Queens, Kramer followed an unconventional path into radio. His education included religious studies in Israel, training at a Manhattan broadcasting trade school, and completion of a bachelor’s degree in communication arts at St. John’s University. He received rabbinic ordination in 2000 and has written extensively on Jewish subjects while maintaining a full-time broadcasting career.

Awkward feeling as I head in for my final full week at WFAN…

— Dov Kramer (@RabbiDMK) December 22, 2025

Kramer joined WFAN in the late 1980s, shortly after the station launched as the nation’s first all-sports radio outlet. He began running the overnight board and went on to work with some of the most recognizable voices in New York sports radio, including Steve Somers, Howie Rose and Mike Francesa. Over time, he took on increasing responsibility, overseeing Mets broadcasts and later Yankees coverage.

In recent years, Kramer served as executive producer for WFAN’s midday programming, helping shape daily rundowns, coordinate live commercial reads and contests, and manage complex broadcast operations. Colleagues describe him as a steady, respected presence through decades of change in sports media.

Kramer has said WFAN’s willingness to accommodate his Sabbath observance was central to his remaining with one station for most of his career, noting his reluctance to risk moving to an employer that might not respect his religious commitments.

Tributes followed his announcement. Joel M. Petlin, superintendent of the Kiryas Joel School District, praised Kramer’s consistency and character. “Rabbi Dov Kramer never compromised his religious beliefs over the 38 years he worked in New York broadcasting,” Petlin wrote. “He leaves WFAN with the respect of his colleagues, sports fans and the Jewish community.”

Rabbi Dov Kramer never compromised his religious beliefs over the 38 years he worked in NY broadcasting. He leaves @WFAN660 with the respect of his colleagues, sports fans and the Jewish community.

Thank you @RabbiDMK for a job well done. https://t.co/G2HdmWo9q6 pic.twitter.com/PCoz7GXRS4

— Joel M. Petlin (@Joelmpetlin) December 23, 2025

As he steps away from daily radio work, Kramer has encouraged aspiring broadcasters to pursue internships, college radio and independent content creation, emphasizing discipline and attention to detail. Those who worked alongside him say his impact — as a professional and as a visible, principled Orthodox Jew in a demanding industry — will endure well beyond his final broadcast week.