Nexstar Implements Layoffs Nationwide, Including KTLA’s Mark Kriski
Mark Kriski, a veteran weather anchor at KTLA, has been let go as part of hundreds of layoffs conducted by Nexstar nationwide. Kriski, an eight-time Emmy Award winner, has been a prominent presence in Los Angeles television since the inception of “KTLA Morning News” in 1991. His departure comes amid widespread job cuts affecting various Nexstar-owned stations, including WPIX in New York and WGN in Chicago.
Nexstar’s Nationwide Layoffs Affecting KTLA and Other Stations
Alongside Kriski, other KTLA staff members impacted by the layoffs include midday anchors Glen Walker and Lu Parker. Walker had been with KTLA since 2010, while Parker joined in 2015. The layoffs at WGN were particularly severe, with the Chicago Tribune reporting eight employees were let go, including veteran Dean Richards, who has been with the network since 1991.
Details of Layoffs at Major Stations
- KTLA: Layoffs included Mark Kriski, Glen Walker, and Lu Parker.
- WGN:
- Dean Richards
- Sean Lewis
- Mike Janseen
- Other layoffs included Ray Cortopassi, Bronagh Tumulty, Judy Wang, Julian Crews, Paul Lisnek, and Chris Boden.
- WPIX:
- Kori Chambers
- Arrianae LeBeau
- John Muller
- Craig Treadway
Nexstar’s spokesperson stated that these layoffs are part of necessary steps to ensure competitiveness amidst significant changes in the industry. The cuts coincided with the company’s ongoing acquisition of Tegna, a move that will expand its control of local news stations across major markets.
Reactions and Concerns from Unions
The layoffs drew criticism from SAG-AFTRA, which expressed concern over the reduction of union roles at KTLA and WGN. SAG-AFTRA President Sean Astin emphasized that the cuts jeopardize the quality of local news and called for protection of employment rights amid media consolidation.
Additionally, the Communication Workers of America (CWA) condemned Nexstar for resisting unionization efforts across multiple markets. The CWA highlighted ongoing investigations by the National Labor Relations Board regarding allegations of unfair labor practices by Nexstar.
Impact on Local Journalism
As a result of these layoffs, the landscape of local journalism is facing significant changes. The departure of seasoned journalists like Kriski raises concerns about the availability of experienced voices in community news. Critics argue that such layoffs threaten the integrity of local news coverage and diminish the resources necessary for trusted reporting.
Mark Kriski, recognized for his commitment to delivering weather updates, was the last original host of “KTLA Morning News.” He had previously suffered a stroke in May 2024 but made a return to the airwaves the following year. His exit marks the end of an era for KTLA viewers.
