Marla Weech, who the Orlando Sentinel once called the grande dame of Orlando TV, has landed at Central Florida News 13, a cable-based news station serving central Florida. She’s set to make her on-air debut with the Bright House-owned station next month.
Weech, a native Floridian and a graduate of the University of Central Florida, has over two decades of experience anchoring in the Orlando market.
She spent most of her career with ABC-affiliate WFTV before moving on to CBS-affiliate WKMG, where she anchored the station’s noon, 4, and 5:50 p.m. newscasts.
Weech was eventually laid off by WKMG in the summer of 2008 in a move that was blamed on “tough economic times.” In his memo to staff about the layoff, station manager Henry Maldonado wrote: “Marla Weech is a name which has history, and recognition. Marla Weech is a person who lives up to her principles and beliefs.”
“We are so pleased she is joining our team,” said Robin Smythe, News 13’s vice president and general manager, in announcing Weech’s hiring. “Marla has been such an important part of Central Florida over the years. She is a unique combination of extraordinary talent and strong character which makes her such a good fit for our viewers.”