Kidd O’Shea, a familiar name in Milwaukee broadcasting, has made a notable return as the traffic anchor and community correspondent for TMJ4’s morning news team. After spending a decade in Washington D.C., where he honed his skills and garnered accolades, O’Shea’s homecoming is characterized by nostalgia and memorable reflections.
A Mequon native and Homestead High School graduate, O’Shea embarked on his broadcasting career at the young age of 16 at WKTI-FM, the same station where TMJ4 is still based. His return has provided him the opportunity to reconnect with influential local figures and revisit significant locales that played a vital role in his career journey.
One of his sentimental stops was Winkie’s, the family-run business in Whitefish Bay where he first began working at just six years old. With a smile, O’Shea humorously claimed the title of “self-proclaimed manager of the lower level.” His parents, still managing the store, shared fond and entertaining stories of their time together, including acting out newscasts during trips to buying shows in Chicago. These early experiences were instrumental in igniting O’Shea’s passion for broadcasting—a dream he carried with him through the years.
Before moving to D.C. in 2015, O’Shea was known for co-hosting “Kidd and Elizabeth in the Morning” on WMYX-FM, a show that earned numerous accolades from the Wisconsin Broadcasters Association. His decade in the nation’s capital involved reporting on significant events such as The Oscars and the Kennedy Center Honors for WJLA-TV’s “Good Morning Washington,” a role that also highlighted his advocacy for LGBTQ visibility.
O’Shea’s international travels as a correspondent took him to over 20 different countries, enriching his stories with diverse perspectives and cultural experiences. Despite this global journey, he expressed that the generosity and friendliness of the Milwaukee community resonated strongly with him upon his return. “After a decade in D.C., which was incredible, you forget how nice people are in the Midwest,” he remarked, reflecting on the genuine warmth he has encountered.
His reintegration into the Milwaukee scene has involved stops at favorite local spots, such as the Public Market, where he enjoyed his beloved three ground beef tacos “gringo style.” The owner recognized him instantly, adding a personal touch to his experience. O’Shea also revisited Zaffiro’s, a pizza place he adores, and connected with former colleague Elizabeth Kay at The MIXX, where their on-air chemistry sparked memories of their previous radio collaboration.
Kay echoed the sentiment of the community’s warmth, stating, “Milwaukee, this city, will embrace you when you come back—and they sure have, haven’t they?”
Kidd O’Shea’s return to Milwaukee signifies a personal milestone and a reconnection to the roots that shaped his early career. As he steps into his new role at TMJ4, the local audience eagerly awaits the insights and stories he will bring, further intertwining his journey with the rich narrative of Milwaukee. This vibrant relationship between O’Shea and the community holds promise for a continued celebration of local culture and shared experiences.