In recent years, WQAD News 8 has experienced a noticeable change in its lineup, with several prominent staff members departing. This has sparked curiosity and interest among viewers and the local community. While turnover is common in the television industry, the frequency of departures at WQAD has raised questions. We will explore the reasons behind these changes and how the station is adapting to maintain its place in the competitive media landscape.
Notable Departures from WQAD
WQAD has said goodbye to some of its stalwart members who spent years contributing to the station’s success. These departures include figures familiar to regular viewers, each leaving for various personal and professional reasons.
Matt Randazzo served as WQAD’s Sports Director for an impressive 25 years. His departure in November 2024 came as quite a surprise to many fans and colleagues. Matt chose to step back from his career to focus more on his family, a decision that resonates with many professionals striving for work-life balance. His years at the station left a lasting impact on local sports coverage.
Jim Mertens, a longtime news anchor, left WQAD in May 2022. After 27 years, Jim transitioned to a new role at KCRG in Cedar Rapids. This move was part of his professional journey to explore new opportunities and reach a larger audience. Jim’s presence was a staple at WQAD, and his departure symbolized significant change for both the station and the viewers.
Joe McCoy decided to embark on a new chapter in his career by moving to a sister station in Minneapolis. His decision highlights a quest for career advancement. Although his presence is missed in the Quad Cities, his move exemplifies the opportunities that larger markets can offer skilled journalists.
Shelby Kluver departed WQAD in August 2023 after the station ended its 6:30 PM newscast. This was part of a programming shift that led to changes in staff roles and responsibilities. Shelby’s departure coincided with adjustments in the station’s schedule, reflecting the dynamic nature of the TV industry.
Reasons Behind the Departures
Examining the reasons behind these staff exits reveals common themes that underline the normal ebb and flow of the television industry.
- Career Advancement Opportunities: The media industry often sees professionals moving to larger market stations, seeking broader exposure and new challenges. Joe McCoy’s transition to Minneapolis exemplifies this drive for career progression. Moving to a larger city often means access to a more diverse audience and potentially higher compensation.
- Personal Decisions and Family Considerations: Personal life priorities often influence career paths. Matt Randazzo’s choice to leave WQAD after 25 successful years in sports journalism was driven by his desire to dedicate more time to his family. Such decisions resonate well with those who understand the pressures of balancing a demanding career with family life.
- Industry Changes: The TV industry constantly evolves, requiring stations to adapt their programming. WQAD’s decision to end its 6:30 PM newscast in August 2023 is an example of such shifts. These changes can lead to modifications in staff positions and responsibilities, prompting some to seek other opportunities that align more closely with their career goals.
- Normal Turnover Patterns: Local TV stations experience regular staff changes due to the nature of the industry. People frequently move to new markets, explore other career paths, or seek different work environments. This turnover is part of the business fabric, keeping the industry fresh with new talent and perspectives.
Response from WQAD
In response to these departures, WQAD has demonstrated proactive strategies to ensure continuity and growth in their operations.
- Appointment of John Wilson as Interim News Director: To address the transition period, WQAD appointed John Wilson as a temporary news director in October 2023. His role is to maintain leadership and guide the newsroom through changes while the station searches for a permanent replacement. This appointment highlights the station’s commitment to maintaining quality leadership during times of transition.
- Recruitment of New Talent: The station has been actively hiring new personnel, bringing fresh faces and perspectives to their broadcasts. For instance, in February 2025, Marshawn Gunn joined the “Good Morning Quad Cities” team as a reporter. Such recruitment efforts demonstrate WQAD’s dedication to bringing in energetic and promising talent to continue delivering engaging content to viewers.
- Introduction of New Programs: To adapt to changes and stay relevant, WQAD launched a new 4 PM newscast titled “The Current” in September 2024. This move signifies the station’s commitment to diversifying its programming to cater to audience needs and preferences. “The Current” is designed to offer a fresh take on news coverage in the region and provide a platform for in-depth discussions on current events.
The Business Bloom has noted these strategic adjustments as vital steps in maintaining a strong presence in the competitive media environment.
Conclusion
The recent departures from WQAD News 8 are part of a broader pattern seen throughout the television industry. Various personal and professional motivations have driven these changes, from career advancement to shifts in programming. While notable figures have left, the station’s proactive approach to hiring new talent and adjusting its broadcast lineup shows resilience and adaptability.
WQAD continues to strive forward with dedicated efforts to enhance its programming and engage viewers with a mix of fresh and experienced talent. These changes reflect the natural cycle of television networks responding to industry trends and audience expectations. As the station evolves, viewers can expect to see new faces and exciting content that represent the vibrant landscape of local news broadcasting.
