San Francisco journalist Reggie Aqui has made a heartfelt departure from ABC7 News Bay Area, marking the end of a significant era in his career. During a Tuesday broadcast celebrating his ten-year tenure with the network, Aqui emotionally bid farewell to his loyal audience, leaving many viewers touched by his bittersweet announcement.
“I’m so happy it happened. I am sad that it’s over,” Aqui shared during the emotional segment. As he reflected on his decade-long journey, he incorporated humor and nostalgia, likening his ten years to a transformation from a puppy to a senior in dog years. “Had I been good at math and science, I could’ve been a doctor or a scientist in those 10 years,” he joked. He also noted that if a ten-year work anniversary were marked with a gift, he’d be wrapped in Reynolds wrap, humorously acknowledging the significance of the day.
Aqui emphasized that his proudest moments were not defined by awards or specific news stories, but rather the relationships he built with his colleagues and viewers, whom he affectionately referred to as his “co-anchors.” In a heartfelt message to his audience, he expressed gratitude for the connections made over the years, stating, “When I meet you on the street…you tell me that we make your day just a little bit better.”
Reflecting on his experiences, Aqui shared that his absolute career highlight was a memorable duet with country music legend Dolly Parton, which stands out as a cherished memory amidst his reporting career. He joined the ABC7 network in October 2015 after working in Oregon, and his presence has left an indelible mark on the San Francisco media landscape.
In his farewell, Aqui encapsulated the emotions tied to such transitions, saying, “Ten years… I’m so happy it happened. I am sad that it’s over, and that’s perfect because that is my favorite kind of emotion: happy and sad.” His departure comes shortly after fellow anchor Julian Glover announced his exit from ABC7’s KGO station, signaling recent changes within the network.
As Aqui steps away from the anchor desk, his heartfelt words and influence will surely resonate with the community he’s served for a decade, leaving behind a legacy of warmth and connection. While this marks a departure, it brings the hope of new beginnings both for Aqui and the audiences who cherished his presence on their screens.