It was a tough week inside the newsroom at WGN-TV. Eight on air reporters and anchors were let go Monday in a move that sent shockwaves through Chicago media circles and longtime viewers alike.
Those departing include Sean Lewis, Ray Cortopassi, Bronagh Tumulty, Judy Wang, Julian Crews, Paul Lisnek, Chris Boden and Dean Richards. These are not fringe contributors. These are seasoned journalists who have been part of the fabric of Channel 9 for years.
In addition, meteorologist Mike Janssen’s contract was not renewed just days earlier, bringing the total number of recent on air exits even higher. Janssen had become a familiar presence in WGN’s weather coverage and built a loyal following.
The layoffs come under the ownership of Nexstar Media Group, which has been making cost cutting moves across several markets. The company has not offered detailed public explanations tied to the individual departures. What is clear is that local television newsrooms across the country are under financial pressure, and Chicago is not immune.
For many in the industry, this one felt personal.
Sean Lewis, WGN veteran weekend morning anchor and reporter, shared publicly that he wished he had the opportunity to properly say goodbye to viewers. That sentiment has echoed across social media, where colleagues and fans have expressed gratitude, disbelief and frustration. Several of those affected have deep Chicago roots or long tenures covering this city’s politics, neighborhoods, sports and entertainment scene.
Dean Richards, has been a staple of Chicago entertainment reporting for decades. Chris Boden has covered the city’s sports highs and heartbreaks with authority. Judy Wang and Ray Cortopassi have been steady presences at the anchor desk. These are journalists who know this market.
SAG AFTRA weighed in, criticizing the broader pattern of newsroom cuts and warning about the impact on local journalism. Fewer experienced reporters means fewer boots on the ground. That matters in a city like Chicago.
WGN has long branded itself as Chicago’s Very Own. Viewers build trust with the faces they see every day. When multiple familiar anchors and reporters disappear at once, audiences notice.
There is no question that the television landscape is shifting. Streaming competition, changing ad revenue models and corporate consolidation are all part of the equation. But beyond the business realities, this is about people. Careers. Relationships built with viewers over years.
For now, the station will adjust its lineups and move forward. Still, this was a significant moment for one of the city’s legacy stations. And people are paying attention.
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