WGN-TV lays off 8 on-air reporters, anchors in massive downsizing
Chicago Tribune • • business
Key Points:
- WGN-Ch. 9 laid off eight veteran reporters and anchors on Monday as part of a significant newsroom downsizing by owner Nexstar Media, which has been cutting positions for several months.
- Sean Lewis, a nearly 20-year veteran weekend morning anchor, was among those laid off, highlighting the impact on experienced on-air staff and raising concerns about the loss of local news expertise.
- Nexstar, which acquired WGN in 2019, cited budgetary constraints and the need to remain competitive amid industry changes, while continuing to pursue large mergers such as its pending $6.8 billion purchase of Tegna.
- The layoffs have created low morale and uncertainty within the newsroom, with management planning meetings to discuss reorganization, and insiders fearing
