Greg Papa Hospitalized With Advanced Heart Failure Amidst Return to KNBR

Bay Area radio host Greg Papa was hospitalized on September 7 with advanced heart failure, according to reports. This health development postpones his planned on-air return to KNBR, the station where he was controversially laid off earlier in August before being re-hired.

Papa, 63, was scheduled to begin a role as a studio analyst with NBC Sports Bay Area for the team's opener against the Rams on September 10. His worsening heart condition is attributed to complications following a bone marrow transplant he received in the spring. Papa underwent a diagnostic procedure on September 13, he told the San Francisco Standard.

Following Papa's initial layoff from KNBR, the radio company had stated its intention to explore avenues for bringing the broadcaster back. Last week, KNBR announced that Papa would return in a part-time capacity, hosting "Lunch with Papa" on weekdays and contributing to "Niners Updates" segments.

Papa had previously been diagnosed with leukemia in July 2025 and was recovering from a bone marrow transplant when his KNBR contract was terminated. The public reaction to his layoff was significant, and contributed to his eventual rehiring by the station.