Beloved South Florida News Station Cuts Ties with ABC, Launches Bold Expansion Initiative

Beloved South Florida news station WPLG is ending its 69-year affiliation with ABC, announcing a major expansion in local news coverage beginning on August 4th. Station President and CEO Bert Medina dubbed the day “Independence Day” in a video address, emphasizing the split as a strategic move to grow WPLG's content in a bold expansion plan.

“Many stations are cutting back — we’re doing the opposite,” Medina said, unveiling a new programming schedule that adds early morning, midday, afternoon, and late evening news blocks. Notably, WPLG will debut “South Florida’s only 9 p.m. newscast.”

The decision follows failed negotiations with ABC, which Medina said demanded higher fees for less value. Despite the split, popular syndicated shows like Jeopardy! and Wheel of Fortune will remain.

WPLG's move contrasts with broader industry trends, signaling a commitment to local journalism and deeper community ties. Viewers using antennas must rescan their TVs after a channel frequency change on July 28, ahead of the ABC departure on August 4.

“Your Local 10 is here to stay,” Medina concluded.