WFLD evening anchor Robin Robinson is shifting into a new role at the Chicago Fox O&O, setting off a domino effect of changes to the station’s morning and evening newscasts.
Robinson, who has anchored WFLD’s evening newscast since the station launched local news in 1987, will be the host and principal correspondent for the recently-launched “Chicago at the Tipping Point” series of reports. WFLD’s Mike Flannery will serve as the co-host of the series.
“I will miss interacting every weeknight with the wonderfully engaged and informed Chicago news audience, it has been an honor and privilege,” Robinson said in a statement. “I look forward to continuing and even expanding a tradition of reporting stories that explore the issues, challenges and solutions that strive to make a difference in our lives.”
News of Robinson’s new role comes after days of speculation about her future at the station. Her departure from the anchor desk was first reported by Chicago media reporter Robert Feder.
Replacing Robinson on the evening anchor desk will be Dawn Hasbrouck, who currently anchors the morning newscasts at WFLD alongside Corey McPherrin. Hasbrouck’s first day on the evening newscast will be November 28.
Hasbrouck and McPherrin will be replaced on “Good Day Chicago” by Melody Mendez and Jon Kelly, who are joining the station from Denver and San Francisco, respectively. Mendez comes from KDVR, where she is an anchor and reporter, and Kelly comes from KNTV, where he is co-anchor of the morning newscast. The pair will anchor alongside Natalie Bomke, who joined WFLD last month.
“To say I’m excited about this opportunity would be an understatement. I’m energized to join forces with a team that’s passionate and committed to compelling and engaging storytelling,” Kelly said in a statement.
“I am truly looking forward to becoming a part of the Chicago community and excited to work at a station, which is committed to covering the fabric of such a dynamic and diverse city,” Mendez added.
Station sources say an announcement about McPherrin’s new role at WFLD is expected soon.
[Pictured above, from left to right: Robin Robinson, Dawn Hasbrouck, Jon Kelly and Melody Mendez]