Alcoholism is a disease that doesn’t discriminate. And local TV news personalities are not immune from its clutches. And when that drinking causes a run-in with police, that news often becomes reported in the press. Usually, the story is covered by the competing TV news operations and local newspapers in town, and sometimes, the station […]
Alcoholism is a disease that doesn’t discriminate. And local TV news personalities are not immune from its clutches.
And when that drinking causes a run-in with police, that news often becomes reported in the press.
Usually, the story is covered by the competing TV news operations and local newspapers in town, and sometimes, the station where the personality works even covers the story in its news.
In most cases, the on-air personality is quietly removed from their position. But not always.
Amanda Davis has been an on-air anchor and reporter in Atlanta for almost 30 years, 23 of those years at WAGA, the Fox O&O there.
Davis has been arrested at least three times over the years for charges of driving while intoxicated.
Last year, on the weekend before her return to television on WGCL, she was arrested again for a DUI.
WGCL has been airing a dramatic promo promoting Davis appearance on WGCL to talk about her alcoholism in ‘her own words’.
Her first appearance was in last night’s 11 p.m. news on WGCL. That video has yet to appear on the station’s website. But Davis did do sit downs in WGCL’s earlier newscasts to discuss the issue.
I found the video on the WGCL’s Facebook page and I was especially interested to see what the station’s Facebook followers had to say about Davis. Nearly every one of the comments were in support of Davis’ public admission and wished her encouragement. Only a couple felt it was a ploy by WGCL to increase ratings for the May sweeps period.
Jeff Van Valkenburg: Powerful story and a very brave woman to bring it to the public. Her candor and strength are inspiring. Bless you Amanda. Your city is behind you all the way
Robin Turner: Was glad to see Amanda. It took a lot of courage for her to bring this out on TV. I wish the best in her sobriety. Looking forward to tomorrow edition. Kudos to you Amanda!
Alan Cason: You’re a brave woman to address these issues so publicly. I don’t normally watch CBS46 News but I’ll be tuned in tonight.
Bridget Pannell-Porter: So glad to see Amanda Davis on your station telling her story. What a brave and beautiful woman. I have missed her. Prayers for continued recovery. You make a difference. There but for the grace of God it could be any of us. Much love.
Melodi Staats Allen: Thanks for getting the ratings higher for CBS.
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