CLEVELAND, Ohio — Meteorologist Hollie Strano announced on Facebook Monday that she has been terminated from her position at WKYC Channel 3, several months after returning to work following a drunken driving arrest.
In her post, Strano mentioned that WKYC, along with its parent company Tegna, made the decision to end her employment after 22 years. She indicated that this decision came after she openly discussed her recovery journey.
Strano expressed her belief that the actions of WKYC and Tegna reflect the stigma related to addiction that many individuals in the community face daily.
Cleveland.com has requested a comment from WKYC.
On Thanksgiving night, Strano was involved in a car crash where she hit a utility pole in Cuyahoga Falls. She was arrested with a blood-alcohol level three times above the legal limit. She later pleaded guilty to operating a vehicle under the influence and was sentenced to a six-day driver-intervention program instead of jail, along with a fine of $375 plus court costs.
On January 23, Strano shared on social media her feelings of deep remorse regarding that incident, stating that the experience has been pivotal in her healing journey toward sobriety and self-reflection.
She remained off-air until February, when she rejoined WKYC, albeit in a different capacity, as she appeared on Saturday and Sunday morning newscasts, along with Monday and Tuesday evening segments, rather than her regular morning show slot.
In her Facebook update, Strano emphasized that she has been “honest and authentic” about her sobriety and plans to continue to share her journey. She also expressed gratitude for the support she has received from her followers throughout this process.