WPVI has named Brian Taff as the next anchor for the 6 p.m. newscast.
Taff will take over for Jim Gardner when he retires later this month. Gardner’s final newscast is scheduled for Dec. 21.
“During my time at Action News, Jim Gardner has become much more than a mentor to me — he’s been a dear friend, a trusted confidant, and a guide for which I’m unendingly grateful,” said Taff. “He will never be replaced on Action News at 6, but it’s the professional honor of a lifetime to be asked to succeed him. It is an important distinction. The baton I am being handed from him has been used to orchestrate the decades-long construction of our foundation ― one built on honesty, integrity, and trust. I intend to honor and build upon that legacy with every single word, every single night.”
Taff joined the Philadelphia ABC owned station in 2009 and anchors the noon and 4 p.m. newscasts. He’ll stop anchoring at Noon but will remain part of the 4 p.m. newscast.
“I’m excited that Brian Taff will be the next anchor of Action News at 6 p.m. following Jim Gardner’s historic run,” said president and general manager Bernie Prazenica. “Over the last 13 years, Brian has displayed the knowledge, skill and talent that the Delaware Valley expects from Action News. Now, with Brian and Rick Williams in place, we can continue to serve our viewers for many years to come.”
“Brian is a very hardworking and talented journalist who loves the Delaware Valley,” said vice president of news Tom Davis. “He is committed to the creative storytelling that impacts our communities. Jim is also excited about Brian taking on this new role.”