Kacey Montoya is making a surprise comeback to KTLA this weekend, following her recent firing that shocked both fans and the broadcasting community. The well-loved weathercaster was let go on February 25, along with four other colleagues, as part of significant layoffs at KTLA’s parent company, Nexstar Media Group. Rather than collecting a severance payment, Montoya chose to work through her 60-day severance period on air, demonstrating her commitment to her viewers and her craft.
Montoya, who joined KTLA in 2013, quickly became a favorite among audiences, amassing a loyal Instagram following of 700,000 fans. The abrupt terminations, particularly impacting fellow meteorologist Mark Kriski, anchors Lu Parker and Glen Walker, and reporter Ellina Abovian—who was shockingly let go on her 40th birthday—left the station’s audience reeling with disappointment.
After a brief period of silence, Montoya expressed her gratitude towards her supporters in an emotional Instagram video on March 5. She shared how humbled she was by the outpouring of affection from viewers, reaffirming the strong connection she had built with the community over the years.
Her decision to return to the airwaves instead of taking a severance package underscored her dedication. In her heartfelt message, she stated, “I truly love this job,” emphasizing her preference for maintaining her relationship with viewers over taking the easier financial route.
Montoya is set to return to KTLA’s weekend broadcasts starting March 7, continuing until early April, marking her comeback just ten days post-firing. While preparing for her on-air return, she has also revealed plans to focus on her nonprofit organization, Fix’N Fidos, which assists low-income families with pet spaying and neutering services throughout Southern California.
In light of her departure from KTLA after a remarkable 13-year career, Montoya hinted at future endeavors beyond the station, stirring excitement among fans and industry experts alike. Speculation suggests she may explore opportunities with other networks or further her advocacy work in animal welfare, a passion that has become a beloved aspect of her broadcasting identity.
The situation raises questions about the future of KTLA as many viewers are understandably concerned about potential further layoffs among staff. News director Erica Hill-Rodriguez has acknowledged the challenging times for the station, leaving audiences wondering who else might be affected as the network continues to restructure.
Through her resilience and commitment to her audience, Kacey Montoya’s return offers a glimmer of hope amid uncertainty, serving as a reminder of the strong bonds formed between broadcasters and their viewers.