Why is everyone leaving FOX 17 News? If this is also the question in your mind right now, then we should let you know straight off that this is not only happening to FOX 17 News but to many local news stations across the country. It is a trend that recently broke out in the broadcasting industry, and many people have been concerned about it.
FOX 17 News, once a stalwart in its region, has also been experiencing a significant exodus of its talented staff in recent times. A series of departures, both abrupt and gradual, has left many puzzled and curious about the underlying reasons behind these exits.
So, in this post, we will be shedding light on the circumstances that have prompted these departures. Sometimes when someone asks, ‘Why is everyone leaving FOX 17 News?’ they are just concerned about the departure of a couple of reputable figures they have always loved to see on screen but are no more.
So, we will also discuss some of the prominent reporters that have left the station and the reason they gave for their leaving. So, just keep reading!
Table of Contents
Why Is Everyone Leaving FOX 17 News?
The turnover rate among on-air personalities, particularly in the morning news lineup, has been alarmingly high. Similar trends have also been witnessed in other local shows and even across all local stations.
However, there have been various speculations to explain why this is happening. One prevailing theory suggests that the larger companies that own FOX17, along with stations like WOOD, are strategically replacing long-time anchors and hosts with younger talent in an effort to appeal to a younger demographic.
It is believed that this strategy aims to breathe fresh air into the station’s image and capture the attention of a more youthful audience. Some also suggest that these staffing changes may be part of a general talent refresh initiative by the companies.
On the other hand, concerns about compensation have also been raised as a potential factor contributing to the exodus of talented reporters and anchors. The demanding nature of their work, involving long hours and dedication, coupled with relatively low pay, has led some to seek better financial prospects elsewhere.
While this may not be a significant concern for younger individuals or recent graduates, it can pose considerable challenges for middle-aged professionals supporting families, leading them to make the difficult decision to leave.
All these speculations are true in their sense, and some or all of them may be the reason people are massively using the exit in FOX 17. But to properly answer the question, ‘Why is everyone leaving FOX 17 News?’ let’s take a closer look at the incident. So, let’s consider some of the prominent figures that have left the station and why they left.
Let’s have a look at other businesses:
Did Maggie Lamere Leave FOX 17?
Yes, Maggie Lamere has left FOX 17. One familiar face that viewers of FOX 17 News This Morning may have noticed missing is that of anchor and reporter Maggie LaMere. Maggie had been a regular co-anchor for the 4:00 a.m. show and a live field reporter until her departure from the station.
The reason behind Maggie’s exit was revealed to be her recent move to Nashville alongside her husband, Tim. This relocation served as the primary factor leading to her decision to leave FOX 17 News.
While her departure may come as a disappointment to many viewers who appreciated her contributions to the morning news program, it highlights the personal circumstances that can influence an individual’s career choices.
What Happened to Michelle Dunaway?
Viewers of FOX 17 News Morning Edition may have noticed a change in the role of anchor Michelle Dunaway. Rather than leaving the station altogether, Michelle recently underwent a transition to a new position within the FOX 17 network.
In August 2022, West Michigan viewers witnessed Michelle’s shift from her previous role as a morning news anchor to her new position as a co-host on FOX 17’s popular lifestyle show, the FOX 17 Morning Mix. So, Michelle Dunaway did not leave FOX 17 News!
What Happened to Melissa From FOX?
If you are a regular viewer of FOX News, then you might be wondering what really happened to Melissa Francis. This is a FOX News personality that made the headlines in late 2020. So, why is everyone leaving FOX 17 News – did Melissa leave too?
Yes, Melissa eventually left the station after she filed a lawsuit against the station and got compensated afterward. She filed a pay discrimination action against the station, alleging that she had been underpaid in comparison to her male colleagues at the network.
Following her legal claims against FOX, a settlement was reached in June 2022. As part of the settlement, FOX paid Francis a sum of $15 million.
Is Alyssa Hearin Leaving FOX 17?
Regrettably, Alyssa Hearin is also one of the prominent faces you may never get to watch on FOX 17 again – she left! After joining FOX 17 as a morning anchor and reporter in 2016, Alyssa has contributed significantly to the station’s coverage over the past five years.
She initiated the renowned Food Fight Friday segment, which raised over 50,000 pounds of food for Feeding America West Michigan. Alyssa’s outstanding work on this initiative earned her recognition from the Michigan Association of Broadcasters with an award for best community initiative.
However, Alyssa has shared that she is ready to embark on a new chapter in her life. Combining her passion for science and communication, she is venturing into the medical field, embracing fresh opportunities and pursuing her evolving goals and aspirations.
What Happened to Brody On FOX 17?
Brody Carter, who joined FOX 17 as a reporter in October 2014 and later became a weekday morning anchor alongside Alyssa Hearin, faced a health challenge that led to his departure from the station. In a Facebook video shared several months ago, Brody disclosed that he had been diagnosed with Bell’s Palsy.
Bell’s Palsy is a condition characterized by the sudden onset of facial muscle weakness or paralysis, typically affecting one or both sides of the face. While most people recover from Bell’s Palsy within a few weeks to six months, a small number may continue to experience some symptoms for an extended period. And that is the case of Brody Carter.
Brody has requested the support and prayers of the community as he undergoes the recovery process. So, we never be having him back on FOX 17 News again, even after his recovery.
Why Did Leigh Ann Towne Leave FOX 17?
For fans of FOX 17’s Morning Mix show, another prominent face they would probably be missing right now is that of the longtime co-host Leigh Ann Towne. The reporter also recently announced that she is leaving the TV station.
Towne has been with the station for over a decade. But why this time that everyone is asking: why is everyone leaving FOX 17 News? Well, the reason she gave for her departure was that she would be moving into the private sector. She said she wants to focus on her growing High Five Bargain Bling business.