WLWT has shuffled its anchor lineup to take advantage of a “Dr. Oz” lead-in at 5 p.m. The NBC-affiliate has added popular morning anchor Lisa Cooney (near right) to its 5 o’clock newscast, where she’ll work alongside Sheree Paolello.
“The departure of Oprah and the arrival of Dr. Oz will create a great opportunity for WLWT News 5 to appeal to a new set of viewers,” WLWT president and general manager Richard Dyer said, in announcing the move. “In addition to playing a major role anchoring our #1 morning show… Lisa’s experience includes health reporting, which we feel provides an opportunity for a unique connection with our 5 pm audience coming out of ‘Dr Oz.'”
Jack Atherton will continue to co-anchor WLWT’s 5:30, 6:00, and 11:00 p.m. newscasts with Paolello, and Cooney will work a split shift, appearing in the morning as well as at 5 p.m.
Cooney has been with the station for the past couple of decades, and she’s anchored the morning show since 2004.
[h/t Cincinnati.com]