WLWT sports director George Vogel is retiring after nearly 42 years at the Cincinnati NBC affiliate.
“I could not have asked for a more enjoyable career than what I’ve had in Cincinnati at WLWT,” said Vogel. “It’s tough to leave the daily buzz of a newsroom, but my family, including my wife Lisa, have allowed me to pursue this dream of mine for almost 42 years, and now I feel it’s time to give them back a little more. I’m so appreciative of the people and teams I’ve covered, from backyard games to major league sports. I’m thankful for all the viewers over the decades who allowed us into their homes to bring them the stories of their favorite local teams. And of course, I am indebted to all of my coworkers here at WLWT and Hearst Television. We’ve been through thick and thin together, and hopefully we had a laugh or two along the way.”
Vogel started working at the station as an intern in 1980.
“In 2023, WLWT will celebrate its 75th anniversary as the first broadcast TV station in Cincinnati. For more than half of that time, George has been a vital member of our WLWT family, serving the sports community he cares so deeply about,” said WLWT president and general manager Branden Frantz. “His legacy and commitment will forever be etched into the WLWT News 5 brand. While we will be sorry to see George leave, I am also heartened and grateful for all that he has done, and all that he leaves behind.”
“I’m so happy that George was able to cover another Bengals Super Bowl this year and follow the UC Bearcats in the College Football Playoff,” said WLWT news director Jeff Benscoter. “There is no bigger fan of Cincinnati sports than George! We know we will continue to see him in all the local stadiums next year, as he transitions from sideline reporter to a front row seat as a spectator.”
Vogel’s final WLWT sportscast will be in March of 2023.