October 23, 1998: Art's statement on his sudden resignation
Art firmly denies any suggestion that his departure was a hoax, a stunt, a contract ploy, or a negotiation tactic for more money. He states categorically that not a single element of his contract has changed and emphasizes that money has never been his motivation for doing the program. He warns that should the private matter become public despite his efforts to keep it contained, he will have a great deal to say about it.
The statement closes on a hopeful note as Art announces his return to the show beginning Wednesday night, October 28th. He expresses sincere gratitude to his network for their support, to fill-in host Hilly Rose for keeping the live forum going on very short notice, and to his listeners for their patience and concern during the ordeal.
Key Moments
Greetings from the Kingdom of Nye: opening of the recorded statement: Art opens his recorded address from the Kingdom of Nye, telling listeners that the difficulties that caused him to suddenly leave the air remain as grave as any family would ever face, but that the situation has improved to some degree.
Art refuses to make the family crisis public: Art tells listeners he will not exacerbate the crisis by making public what should remain private, asks the audience to trust he is doing no less, and warns that if the matter becomes public despite his best efforts he will have a very great deal to say about it.
Not a hoax, not a contract ploy: this was a family crisis: Art categorically denies that the resignation was a hoax, a stunt, a contract ploy, or a negotiation tactic for more money, says money has never been a goal of doing the program, and confirms not so much as a dot on an i has changed in his contract.
Art announces his return for Wednesday, October 28: Art thanks Hilly Rose for keeping the live forum going on very short notice and announces he will return to Coast to Coast AM and Dreamland beginning Wednesday night, October 28th, signing off with his trademark from the high desert, good night.