Full Breakdown
WGN-TV Layoffs Amid Nexstar-Tegna Merger Plans
2/24/2026, 8:43:14 PM
Overview of the Layoffs at WGN-TV
WGN-Ch. 9 in Chicago has experienced significant layoffs, with eight on-air reporters and anchors dismissed on Monday, including veteran weekend anchor Sean Lewis. This round of cuts is part of a broader trend of personnel reductions at the station, which is owned by Nexstar Media Group. The layoffs come as Nexstar prepares for a $6.8 billion merger with Tegna, a deal that is currently under regulatory review.
Details of the Layoffs
The layoffs affected notable figures such as Ray Cortopassi, Bronagh Tumulty, Judy Wang, Julian Crews, Paul Lisnek, Chris Boden, and Dean Richards. Sean Lewis, who had been with WGN for nearly two decades, expressed his disappointment, stating, “A lot of really good people lost their jobs today, and it’s a shame.” The layoffs were reportedly abrupt, with some employees being informed during their shifts. This decision follows previous cuts, including six newswriters and three technical directors in January and four floor directors in October.
Context of the Cuts
Nexstar Media Group acquired WGN as part of its $4.1 billion purchase of Tribune Media in 2019, creating the largest local TV station group in the United States. The company is now facing substantial debt and is implementing cost-cutting measures in anticipation of the Tegna merger. Nexstar's spokesperson stated, “Nexstar does not comment on personnel issues, but the company is taking steps necessary to compete effectively in this period of unprecedented change.” Despite the layoffs, WGN's ratings remain strong, particularly in the morning news segment.
Impact on WGN-TV's Newsroom
The layoffs have cast a shadow over the WGN newsroom, with insiders expressing concerns about the potential decline in the quality of news coverage. Lewis noted the loss of “institutional knowledge of this city and its news” could be detrimental to the station's future. Akemi Harrison, the newly appointed news director, is expected to hold meetings with staff to discuss the reorganization following these cuts.
Official Statements & Responses
Nexstar has not provided specific comments regarding individual layoffs but has emphasized the necessity of these measures to remain competitive. The company is awaiting federal approval for its merger with Tegna, which could further reshape the landscape of local television broadcasting.
Verbatim Quotes
- “A lot of really good people lost their jobs today, and it’s a shame.” — Sean Lewis, Former Weekend Anchor at WGN-TV
- “It’s been a pretty rough day.” — Anonymous newsroom source
- “I do wish that I was able to say goodbye to the wonderful viewers,” — Sean Lewis, reflecting on his departure
What's Next
As Nexstar awaits regulatory approval for the Tegna merger, the company is likely to continue restructuring its workforce. The future of WGN-TV's programming and news coverage remains uncertain as the station navigates these significant changes.
