About this episode
Art Bell returns from retirement in a candid interview with webmaster Keith Rowland, revealing the personal and legal challenges that drove his departure and the negotiations that brought him back. Bell discusses family crises, including his beloved cat Abby's miraculous recovery from liver failure, and the resolution of legal matters. He explains his new contract demands, notably requesting fewer commercials rather than higher pay, and the expansion from four to five hours nightly. Bell details his time away, which included purchasing a 37-foot RV, attending the Super Bowl, and establishing radio station KNYE in Pahrump. The conversation addresses audience speculation about his return, website changes during his absence, and the loss of archived programs. Bell emphasizes his commitment to unscreened open lines and promises a return to the show's spontaneous, impromptu nature that made it successful.