WTVM sports anchor Dave Platta has been fired from the station after refusing to get a Covid-19 vaccination.
The sports anchor, who has worked at the Columbus, Ga. ABC affiliate since 1985, told viewers on Wednesday how it all played out. In a tweet, Platta said that covering sports in the area had been one of the most fulfilling experiences of his life. He then he blamed his departure on Gray Television after the company required its employees get vaccinated by Oct. 1.
“My departure is not my choice. It was also not the choice of WTVM. This came from an edict from Gray Television,” said Platta. “They mandated a Covid vaccine for every single employee. I declined. They fired me. And that’s it. It’s that simple. That’s what happened.”
In an announcement on the station’s website, WTVM said it will miss Platta and that it appreciated his many contributions.
“Dave has decided to move on from WTVM and his Sports Director role,” the station said. “We wish Dave the very best and we thank him for 36 great years on WTVM telling the stories of local athletes and their achievements.”