Beloved Bay Area News Anchor Reggie Aqui Tearfully Announces Departure After Decade of Service

In a heartfelt and tearful live broadcast on Tuesday, Reggie Aqui, one of San Francisco’s most beloved news anchors, announced his departure from ABC’s KGO after ten years at the station. The moment was both poignant and historic, as Aqui reflected on his journey, the relationships he built, and the significance of his role as an openly gay journalist in the Bay Area’s media landscape .

Aqui’s announcement came just days after fellow anchor Julian Glover also revealed his exit from the station, signaling a notable shift within KGO’s news team. While Glover cited new professional challenges and a return home to Washington D.C., Aqui was less specific about his future plans, stating on air, “What am I proudest of in 10 years? My Murrow Award — if I had one. I don’t. It’s not industry accolades. And I really can’t pick a particular story or on-air moment because I’ve been on something like 8,500 hours of news shows in those 10 years.”

The anchor further shared on Instagram that he was uncertain about what would come next but felt ready for a “much-deserved nap.” His departure was met with an outpouring of support from viewers and colleagues, many of whom praised his authenticity and dedication to inclusive storytelling.

Throughout his tenure, Reggie Aqui has been recognized not only for his journalistic skill but also for his visibility in the newsroom as an openly gay man. In a region known for its vibrant LGBTQ+ community, Aqui’s presence on screen has provided audiences with a meaningful example of representation in mainstream media. His approach to reporting has consistently highlighted inclusion, community advocacy, and the importance of diverse perspectives in news coverage .

Colleagues have described Aqui as a mentor and role model, both for aspiring journalists and for members of marginalized communities. His leadership has been credited with helping shape KGO’s coverage of important issues such as Pride events, public health campaigns relevant to LGBTQ+ viewers, and stories focused on intersectionality. Though he did not receive a Murrow Award, as he jokingly referenced during his farewell, his legacy is marked by the positive changes he fostered within the station and the Bay Area at large.

Aqui’s departure comes during a period of transition for KGO and local newsrooms nationwide. Changes in viewership habits, shifts in newsroom staffing, and evolving digital platforms have impacted traditional broadcast journalism. For LGBTQ+ journalists and audiences, these changes raise questions about the future of representation and advocacy in local news .

Industry observers note that anchors like Aqui play a critical role in ensuring that LGBTQ+ perspectives remain visible and valued. The nature of his farewell — emotional, authentic, and deeply personal — serves as a reminder of the human element behind the headlines and the importance of inclusive media spaces. As Aqui’s next steps remain unknown, many hope that he will continue to engage with the community and use his platform to uplift underrepresented voices.

The Bay Area’s LGBTQ+ community responded swiftly to news of Aqui’s departure, with social media posts and local organizations expressing gratitude for his years of service. Messages highlighted the anchor’s ability to connect with viewers, his commitment to truthful reporting, and his advocacy for LGBTQ+ inclusivity both on and off camera.

One post from a local Pride organization read, “Reggie Aqui has been a guiding light in Bay Area journalism, breaking barriers and telling our stories with empathy and respect. His legacy will inspire generations of journalists to come.” Similar sentiments were echoed by viewers who credited Aqui with helping them feel seen and heard in mainstream media coverage.

As newsrooms continue to evolve, the departure of figures like Reggie Aqui is a call to action for media organizations to prioritize diversity and inclusivity. LGBTQ+ journalists bring unique perspectives and lived experiences that enrich news coverage and foster greater understanding within communities. The recognition of their contributions — whether through awards, mentorship, or the simple act of being visible — ensures that progress continues.

While Aqui’s future plans remain private for now, his impact endures. His emotional farewell is more than just the end of an era at KGO; it is a testament to the power of representation and the ongoing need for inclusive storytelling in local news.