As uncertainty swirls around WUTK, see inside as 'The Funhouse' moves to public TV

In a state of confusion, a pair of prominent college radio hosts switched airwaves to go on public access TV and spread the word − at least the little they know − about seismic changes at WUTK and the unexplained absence of longtime station GM Benny Smith.

Rob Levering and Derek Senter, the veteran volunteer co-hosts of "The Funhouse," held an improvised "community forum" version of their program July 12 on knoxcm.org after nonstudents were told July 11 that they are not allowed to broadcast on WUTK (90.3 FM).

The restriction on nonstudents and specialty shows like "The Funhouse" is expected to last at least through the weekend, multiple volunteer hosts told Knox News.

The University of Tennessee at Knoxville, which oversees the station, has not answered Knox News' questions about who implemented the restriction, how long it will last and who is overseeing WUTK in Smith's absence.

Knox News obtained the email, sent by underwriting/marketing manager Matt Keaton, that described the change.

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"At WUTK, we are committed to serving as a learning laboratory for our students," reads Keaton's email. "We greatly appreciate your dedication to WUTK and our mission. At this time, our students and staff will be managing the airwaves at WUTK. We appreciate your service to WUTK and will keep you updated on station needs going forward."

On the July 12 episode of "The Funhouse," which airs 8-10 p.m. on Fridays, the co-hosts invited state Rep. Gloria Johnson to kick off the show and talk about early voting. The conversation quickly transitioned to talking about Smith.

Johnson discussed Smith's importance to the station and to students' growth, as well as his impact on the local music scene. She called the decision to remove him from WUTK a "horrible mistake."

When asked July 11 by Knox News about Smith's employment status, UT spokesperson Kerry Gardner said he is employed at UT and the university does not comment on “personnel matters.”

Johnson lauded Smith, telling Knox News it "would be such a huge loss to not have that guidance of someone who knows how it's done, and can demonstrate that and work with (students).

"And he just has that sort of spirit where he wants to lift everybody up. He wants everybody to really be the best at what they do."

Levering and Senter kept their regular demeanor throughout the show, later inviting more community members to speak in front of the green screen and over the phone. On the TV broadcast, the show's background featured a remixed version of the WUTK logo that replaced the rifleman with a portrayal of Smith in the same style.

"The Funhouse" ended with a segment featuring legendary local rock band Superdrag, known for its hit song "Sucked Out."

Knox News has sent questions to leaders at WUTK, WUOT and the College of Communication and Information about the changes implemented at the radio stations. They have not responded to our questions.

Smith returned to WUTK full time in 2004 after previous stints as a specialty show host, music director and program director. He got his start with the station as a student DJ in the 1980s.

Knox News growth and development editor Ryan Wilusz contributed to this report.

Contact Keenan Thomas by email at keenan.thomas@knoxnews.com; Ryan Wilusz by email at ryan.wilusz@knoxnews.com.

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