WLS is pulling the plug on “190 North,” a weekly lifestyle and entertainment show that has aired on the Chicago ABC O&O for 14 years.
WLS general manager John Idler said “economic challenges facing our industry” were behind the decision. Idler told Time Out Chicago’s Robert Feder he envisions the franchise as a series of quarterly specials going forward.
“I think we can probably add that to some of the franchises we have on the air now,” Idler said. “It would give us the opportunity to celebrate some of those things that ‘190 North’ has been known for in the community.”
Janet Davies (pictured), who has been the host and executive producer of the show since 1998, is currently in talks with the station about her future role, Feder reports. The show’s three freelance contributors — Doug Banks, Mark Nilsson and Eva Saha — will be leaving the station.