RNE has shifted Pepa Fernández from weekend mornings after three years in the role, replacing her with TV personality Samanta Villar, a figure familiar to audiences from Cuatro’s tabloid programs. Inside sources confirm that the change came as a jolt and was far from a routine scheduling tweak.
The broadcaster kept the transition under wraps, denying Pepa Fernández a public announcement about her new focus. As a result, loyal listeners who felt a strong bond with her voice experienced the final days of Pepa’s weekend program with a sense of unease. Social media commentary from the show reflected viewers parsing every hint, with many interpreting a discreet farewell as a signal that the main radio slot might be disappearing. To some, the departure tasted like a farewell coffee after a long run with a familiar host.
Questions arose about the station’s programming instincts and patience for long-running formats. While Pepa Fernández has long delivered consistency and authority, some fans worry that the audience with whom she connected—a demographic known for strong loyalty—could be shrinking as media habits evolve. Nevertheless, few broadcasters can claim the enduring impact of Pepa’s two decades on weekends and three morning seasons, leaving a lasting impression on the station’s legacy.
Looking ahead, Carles Mesa is slated to take the afternoon slot, a change not seen since 2019. The move will be watched closely by RNE’s audience, especially as younger listeners increasingly migrate away from traditional radio. The industry will be watching how this afternoon program lands with listeners who now consume news and entertainment across multiple platforms, not just on the airwaves.