Chicago ABC-owned station WLS is adding an 11 a.m. newscast, nearly three years after canceling it.
“We’re always thrilled to seize an opportunity to produce more news and information for our viewers,” said vp and news director Jennifer Graves. “An 11 am newscast will be a great addition to our daytime lineup.”
The newscast debuts Monday, June 27. Windy City Live, which replaced the 11 a.m. in 2013, will move to 1 p.m.
WLS put Windy City Live at 11 a.m. after it added Live with Kelly and Michael.
“Insiders said the move to 1 p.m. is seen as a way to increase viewership for “Windy City Live” by airing it at an hour with no locally produced competition,” reports Chicago media writer Robert Feder. “Restoring the 11 a.m. news will “level the playing field” with ABC 7’s competitors, according to a source.”
“Windy City LIVE, a one-of-a kind Chicago gem that in its 5th year, has not only entertained local audiences but has forged so many fantastic connections in the community. We’re looking forward to the show doing well at 1 pm,” said Curtis Miles, vp of Creative Services and local programming.