Exclusive: Unveiling the Impact and Insider Perspectives on KTLA’s Recent Layoffs

Inside sources at KTLA have revealed a tense atmosphere at the Los Angeles station following the dismissal of several high-profile on-air personalities.

The recent terminations included anchors Ellina Abovian, Glen Walker, and Lu Parker, along with veteran meteorologist Mark Kriski and weathercaster Kacey Montoya, who were all let go in the latest round of cuts.

These layoffs are reportedly driven by Nexstar Media Group, KTLA’s parent company, as it moves forward with its acquisition of the Virginia-based media firm, Tegna. One remaining KTLA employee described the situation as leaving them feeling “sick,” likening it to “losing five friends.”

“Those stepping into the roles of the outgoing staff are uncomfortable with the circumstances,” the employee remarked.

Details have emerged about how the layoffs were executed, with Abovian reportedly being dismissed immediately after completing a live report from LAX.

Abovian, a station veteran of 11 years, shared in an emotional Instagram post that her termination coincided with her 40th birthday.

Meanwhile, an insider claimed Montoya was at home on a sick day when they called her to fire her.

”The people who make a lot of money all have targets on their backs,” one insider said.

”They scoop up young reporters who still live with their parents to fill their places. Others are offered less money to stay. Everyone here feels like they are in hiding, or feel they have been punched in the stomach.”

Frank Buckley, one of the remaining KTLA staffers, addressed the devastating blow to viewers Thursday from the anchor desk.

“Before we move on this morning, we want to acknowledge some news that broke yesterday that effects all of us here at KTLA, you may have heard that a number of our beloved colleagues have been laid off.

As you probably know, we are extremely limited in what we can say,” Buckley said while looking into the camera.

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“This is a difficult time for us, and we will go through it together,” he said. “But we also have a job to do, and that is to bring you the news that you need. . . . But please know that our colleagues and our friends are in our thoughts as we move forward,” he added.

News director Erica Hill-Rodriguez addressed the firings in a memo shared with staffers that was obtained by The California Post.

“Out of respect for everyone’s individual situation and the process of some ongoing conversations, I am not yet able to share any confidential details. However, as soon as it is appropriate, I will,” Hill-Rodriguez said.

Admitting to “incredibly difficult and sad times,” Hill-Rodriguez told staffers that her “heart is with everyone on our team as we navigate these challenging times.” She remained tight-lipped on the “confidential details” regarding the sudden exit.

The lack of a proper farewell for the heavyweights sparked backlash from fans, who took to social media to vent.