By Frank Macek
Viewers across Northeast Ohio have been reaching out with thoughtful questions about WKYC and the future of local television. Here are five of the most common—and my answers.
1. “Why has WKYC had such a big turnover of anchors and reporters lately?” — Sarah, ParmaMy Answer:
Turnover is nothing new in TV news, but it feels faster today. Reporters often see Cleveland as a stepping stone to larger markets. At the same time, tighter budgets mean fewer long-term contracts, so staff changes happen more quickly. WKYC is far from alone in this—it’s an industry-wide trend. Just in the past couple of years, familiar faces like Matt Rascon, Kaitor Kay, Stacia Naquin, Jiovanni Leggi, Bryan McCray, Bri Buckley, and even evening anchor Laura Caso have moved on. Some left for bigger opportunities, others for different career paths, and a few for personal reasons. It’s a reminder of how fluid this business really is.
2. “Is local television really dead?” — Mark, Akron
My Answer:
In my opinion, not at all. The audience is simply shifting. Streaming, social media, and on-demand news are growing, but during storms, breaking news, or elections, viewers still turn to local TV first. WKYC is adapting with WKYC+ and digital-first reporting. Local television’s role may look different than it did 20 years ago, but it still plays a crucial part in covering Northeast Ohio stories that national outlets don’t touch. Local TV isn’t dead—it’s evolving to meet audiences wherever they are consuming news.
3. “Why are there so many new faces on Channel 3?” — Jennifer, Lakewood
My Answer:
Recruiting is constant in local TV. New journalists bring fresh perspectives and energy, but it can take time for viewers to connect with them. WKYC’s challenge, like all stations, is balancing fresh talent with familiar names. Some turnover is natural as careers progress, but stations are also competing to attract younger journalists who are comfortable working across platforms—on-air, online, and social media—since today’s reporters are expected to be multi-skilled. When longtime anchors like Laura Caso leave, it creates space for rising talent to step in, though it often takes time for viewers to build the same level of trust.
4. “What kind of effect will the Nexstar/TEGNA merger have on WKYC and its staff?” — Tom, Strongsville
My Answer:
This is the big question hanging over the industry right now. If the merger goes through, Nexstar—already the largest owner of TV stations—would gain control of TEGNA properties like WKYC. That could bring cost-cutting moves, including consolidation of some operations, tighter budgets, or changes in staffing levels. On the flip side, it might also give stations access to broader resources and more content-sharing. For WKYC specifically, viewers might not notice immediate changes, but behind the scenes, staff could feel pressure to do more with less. Much depends on how aggressively Nexstar manages its new properties and whether local leadership can protect newsroom independence.
5. “What happened to some of the longtime anchors we grew up watching?” — Linda, Mentor
My Answer:
Careers in TV don’t last forever. Some retired, others pursued opportunities outside of journalism, and a few moved to other markets. The connection viewers felt with anchors like Laura Caso speaks volumes about the lasting power of local news. They became household names, and their departures left a noticeable void. Still, their legacy often paves the way for the next generation of journalists to carry the torch for Cleveland viewers.
Got a question for me? Use the comments form on the right hand side of the blog to send me yours. Remember though, I won't give station secrets away!