After much suspense, Hot 97 has finally announced Mero as the new host of the Morning show on Hot 97 in New York.
Joel Martinez aka Mero is best known for his previous collaborations with Desus Nice that included The Bodega Boys podcast, MTV’s Guy Code, and talk shows on Viceland and Showtime until ending their partnership in 2022.
Mero currently also hosts 7pm In Brooklyn show with former NBA star Carmelo Anthony.
Mero commented: “Hot 97 is the station—it’s been the voice of NYC hip-hop and culture for decades. I grew up listening to Hot 97, so to get the morning slot here isn’t just a job—it’s a responsibility to continue that legacy while bringing it into this next era of media. We’re gonna laugh, we’re gonna get into it, but it’s always gonna be real, and a real good time!”
“Mornings with Mero” will debut on Tuesday, January 13 at 6am.
Our new host has arrived.⁰ Join Mero for his first day on air Tuesday | 6AM–10AM 🎙️⁰ HOT 97 Mornings with Mero, weekdays 6AM–10AM@THEKIDMERO pic.twitter.com/oYdV199O8p
— HOT 97 (@HOT97) January 12, 2026
MediaCo EVP/Content & Growth Kudjo Sogadzi said, “Hot 97 has always been about representing the culture of New York, and Mero is New York. He’s authentic, hilarious, fearless, and deeply connected to the community. Hot 97 Mornings with Mero is going to set the tone for the city every morning and create must-listen moments for our audience.”
MediaCo CEO Albert Rodriguez added, “This is a new era for Hot 97, one that reflects both where the culture is and where it’s going. s the most listened-to station in hip-hop, we’re proud to announce The Kid Mero, Bronx-born comedian and cultural voice who’s captured a generation with his sharp wit and authenticity, as our new morning show host. With the continued growth of the Hot 97 brand alongside Hot TV, this is an integral moment for us to expand our reach and deepen our impact across platforms.”
