WKMG-TV#Translator

{{Infobox television station

| callsign = WKMG-TV

| city =

| logo = WKMG-TV Logo.jpg

| logo_alt = On a white box, from top: The word "News" in blue in an extended sans serif; A blue box, atop which sits a red circle trimmed in white containing an angled serif numeral 6; On two lines, in blue in the same sans serif, the words "Getting Results"

| branding = News 6

| digital = 26 (UHF)

| virtual = 6

| affiliations = {{ubl|6.1: CBS|for others, see {{section link||Subchannels}}}}

| translators = WKMG-LD 21 (UHF) Ocala

| airdate = {{start date and age|1954|7|1|p=y}}

| location = Orlando, Florida

| country = United States

| callsign_meaning = Katharine Meyer Graham, publisher of The Washington Post

| former_callsigns = {{ubl|WDBO-TV (1954–1982)|WCPX-TV (1982–1998)}}

| former_channel_numbers = {{ubl|Analog: 6 (VHF, 1954–2009)|Digital: 58 (UHF, 1999–2009)}}

| owner = Graham Media Group

| licensee = Graham Media Group, Orlando, Inc.

| sister_stations =

| former_affiliations = {{ubl|All secondary:|NBC (1954–1957)|ABC (1954–1958)|DuMont (1954–1955)}}

| erp = 1,000 kW

| haat = {{Convert|515.4|m|ft|0|abbr=on}}

| facility_id = 71293

| coordinates = {{coord|28|36|36.4|N|81|3|34.6|W|type:landmark_scale:2000|display=inline, title}}

| licensing_authority = FCC

| website = {{URL|https://www.clickorlando.com/}}

}}

WKMG-TV (channel 6) is a television station in Orlando, Florida, United States, affiliated with CBS and owned by Graham Media Group. The station's studios are located on John Young Parkway (SR 423) in Orlando, and its transmitter is located on Brown Road near Christmas, Florida.

Channel 6 is the oldest TV station in Central Florida, signing on as WDBO-TV in July 1954. It was built and owned by the Orlando Broadcasting Company alongside Orlando radio station WDBO (580 AM). WDBO-TV aired local programming as well as shows from all major networks of the era; it became a sole CBS affiliate in 1958, by which time the market had three commercial stations. It was owned by Rhode Island interests, first the Cherry Broadcasting Company and later The Outlet Company, from 1957 to 1986; late in the latter's ownership, it changed its call sign to WCPX-TV, an artifact of an attempted merger with Columbia Pictures that ultimately never transpired, and moved to its present studio facilities.

Channel 6 led local news ratings until its tower in Bithlo collapsed during construction work in June 1973, killing two workers. The station was not at full-power until the mast was replaced more than two years later; its ratings fell, and in the late 1970s WFTV moved from worst to a dominant first. The slide was aggravated after Outlet sold WCPX-TV to First Media for $200 million, a then-record price for an Orlando TV station, at a peak of broadcast station valuations. For most of its ownership, First Media shied away from making major investments, in part crimped by the high purchase price. The newscasts struggled despite multiple changes in format, anchors, and presentation; meanwhile, First Media used WCPX-TV as a springboard to produce programming for national syndication.

First Media put its television stations on the market in 1996. They were purchased by the Meredith Corporation; as it owned WOFL at the time, it traded WCPX-TV to Post-Newsweek Stations. WCPX-TV became WKMG-TV in January 1998 in honor of Katharine Meyer Graham, the longtime publisher of The Washington Post. High turnover continued in the news department, but the station on the whole became more competitive, particularly in late news ratings, against WFTV and WESH.

WDBO-TV: Construction and early years

After the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) ended its multi-year freeze on new TV station assignments in April 1952, it allocated two very high frequency (VHF) channels to Orlando, channel 6 and 9. Orlando radio station WDBO (580 AM) was the first applicant for channel 6 and remained unopposed{{Cite news|url=https://newspapers.com/article/orlando-evening-star-orlando-may-have-tv/129288666/|date=August 26, 1952|page=1|first=Paul|last=Thompson|title=Orlando May Have TV In '53|newspaper=Orlando Evening Star|location=Orlando, Florida|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=February 24, 2024|archive-date=February 24, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240224204844/https://www.newspapers.com/article/orlando-evening-star-orlando-may-have-tv/129288666/|url-status=live}} until Central Florida Enterprises, a group of local businessman, filed a competing application in September.{{Cite news|url=https://newspapers.com/article/orlando-evening-star-fourth-tv-bid-made/129288680/|date=September 22, 1952|page=1|title=Fourth TV Bid Made In Orlando|newspaper=Orlando Evening Star|location=Orlando, Florida|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=February 24, 2024|archive-date=February 24, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240224204848/https://www.newspapers.com/article/orlando-evening-star-fourth-tv-bid-made/129288680/|url-status=live}} The competing bids for channels 6 and 9 made a comparative hearing necessary and delayed the arrival of television in Orlando, as the commission continued to work on awarding stations in larger, higher-priority cities.{{Cite news|url=https://newspapers.com/article/orlando-evening-star-tvs-status-here-st/129288745/|date=April 15, 1953|page=15|first=Summer G.|last=Rand|title=TV's Status Here Still Unchanged|newspaper=Orlando Evening Star|location=Orlando, Florida|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=February 24, 2024|archive-date=February 24, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240224204855/https://www.newspapers.com/article/orlando-evening-star-tvs-status-here-st/129288745/|url-status=live}}

Central Florida Enterprises withdrew its application for channel 6 on October 13, 1953, unblocking the channel for WDBO. Their decision won formal praise from the Orlando city council.{{Cite news|url=https://newspapers.com/article/orlando-evening-star-orlando-tv-permit-a/141570732/|date=October 14, 1953|page=1|title=Orlando TV Permit Action Not Taken|newspaper=Orlando Evening Star|location=Orlando, Florida|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=February 24, 2024|archive-date=February 24, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240224204845/https://www.newspapers.com/article/orlando-evening-star-orlando-tv-permit-a/141570732/|url-status=live}} The next day, the FCC awarded WDBO's parent company, the Orlando Broadcasting Company, a construction permit for channel 6.{{Cite news|url=https://newspapers.com/article/the-miami-herald-orlando-gets-tv-station/142004491/|date=October 15, 1953|page=1-B|agency=Associated Press|title=Orlando Gets TV Station|newspaper=The Miami Herald|location=Miami, Florida|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=February 24, 2024|archive-date=February 24, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240224204849/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-miami-herald-orlando-gets-tv-station/142004491/|url-status=live}} Management predicted they would be on the air by late April 1954.{{Cite news|url=https://newspapers.com/article/the-orlando-sentinel-tv-station-expects/141570799/|date=November 6, 1953|page=2-A|title=TV Station Expects To Open April 25|newspaper=The Orlando Sentinel|location=Orlando, Florida|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=February 24, 2024|archive-date=February 24, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240224204854/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-orlando-sentinel-tv-station-expects/141570799/|url-status=live}} WDBO-TV secured primary affiliation with CBS as well as supplemental agreements to air the programs of the ABC, DuMont, and NBC networks. A tower on Texas Avenue, west of US 441, was constructed in the spring of 1954 as part of a TV Center, containing new transmitter facilities for WDBO radio and television as well as television studios.{{Cite news|url=https://newspapers.com/article/orlando-evening-star-67-mile-range-city/129288876/|date=April 19, 1954|page=4|title=67-Mile Range: City May Get Own TV Before May 15|newspaper=Orlando Evening Star|location=Orlando, Florida|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=February 24, 2024|archive-date=February 24, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240224204847/https://www.newspapers.com/article/orlando-evening-star-67-mile-range-city/129288876/|url-status=live}} Technical issues postponed the start of broadcasting several times.{{Cite news|url=https://newspapers.com/article/the-orlando-sentinel-wdbo-fm-on-air-afte/141565294/|date=June 19, 1954|page=11|title=WDBO-FM On Air After Studio Move|newspaper=The Orlando Sentinel|location=Orlando, Florida|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=February 24, 2024|archive-date=February 24, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240224204858/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-orlando-sentinel-wdbo-fm-on-air-afte/141565294/|url-status=live}} Mark Barker, the station's first production manager, recalled that the noisy metal roofing in the studio was a major issue, and insulation lowered the ceiling height.{{Cite news|url=https://newspapers.com/article/the-orlando-sentinel-the-blurry-beginnin/141568903/|date=June 27, 2004|pages=F1, [https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-orlando-sentinel-the-tv-fuzz-created/141568778/ F3]|first=Hal|last=Boedeker|title=The blurry beginning of local TV|newspaper=The Orlando Sentinel|location=Orlando, Florida|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=February 24, 2024|archive-date=February 24, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240224204851/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-orlando-sentinel-the-blurry-beginnin/141568903/|url-status=live}}

WDBO-TV signed on the air on July 1, 1954, as the first television station in Central Florida.{{Cite news|url=https://newspapers.com/article/orlando-evening-star-orlando-tv-on-air/142005086/|date=July 1, 1954|page=1|title=Orlando TV On Air; Signal Good|newspaper=Orlando Evening Star|location=Orlando, Florida|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=February 24, 2024|archive-date=February 24, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240224204852/https://www.newspapers.com/article/orlando-evening-star-orlando-tv-on-air/142005086/|url-status=live}} It remained the only Orlando-area station until November 1957, when WESH (channel 2) in Daytona Beach moved its antenna and began covering the full market as an NBC affiliate.{{Cite news|url=https://newspapers.com/article/the-orlando-sentinel-nbc-signs-with-dayt/142005502/|date=July 13, 1957|page=13|title=NBC Signs With Daytona Station|newspaper=The Orlando Sentinel|location=Orlando, Florida|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=February 24, 2024|archive-date=February 24, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240224204847/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-orlando-sentinel-nbc-signs-with-dayt/142005502/|url-status=live}}{{Cite news|url=https://www.genealogybank.com/newspaper-clippings/fcc-backs-decision-wesh-tv/oxdeddashefravaikdxxiuocupabqyni_ip-10-166-46-89_1708804964000|work=Daytona Beach Morning Journal|page=13|date=November 8, 1957|title=FCC Backs Decision On WESH-TV|access-date=February 24, 2024|archive-date=February 24, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240224203904/https://www.genealogybank.com/newspaper-clippings/fcc-backs-decision-wesh-tv/oxdeddashefravaikdxxiuocupabqyni_ip-10-166-46-89_1708804964000|url-status=live}} In February 1958, WLOF-TV (now WFTV) began on channel 9 as Orlando's ABC affiliate.{{Cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-orlando-sentinel-tv-news-and-views/129289417/|date=February 2, 1958|page=18-E|first=Charlie|last=Wadsworth|title=TV News and Views: Not One—Not Three—But Six Channels|newspaper=The Orlando Sentinel|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=August 5, 2023|archive-date=August 5, 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230805090055/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-orlando-sentinel-tv-news-and-views/129289417/|url-status=live}}

In addition to network programming, WDBO-TV featured a variety of local programs. William D. "Don" McAllister came over from WDBO radio and hosted Hunting and Fishing with Don, which aired on the station from its 1954 launch until 1972.{{Cite news|url=https://newspapers.com/article/the-orlando-sentinel-orlando-tv-pioneer/141566897/|date=May 11, 1995|page=C-4|first=Tom|last=Leithauser|title=Orlando TV pioneer McAllister dies at age 70|newspaper=The Orlando Sentinel|location=Orlando, Florida|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=February 25, 2024|archive-date=February 25, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240225014304/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-orlando-sentinel-orlando-tv-pioneer/141566897/|url-status=live}} Walter Sickles, channel 6's first program director, hosted the children's show Adventures with Uncle Walt; it aired until February 27, 1967, when the host was abruptly fired moments before airtime.{{Cite news|url=https://newspapers.com/article/the-orlando-sentinel-one-more-adventure/141568100/|date=November 4, 1990|page=Florida Magazine 70|first=Bob|last=Morris|title=One more adventure with Uncle Walt|newspaper=The Orlando Sentinel|location=Orlando, Florida|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=February 25, 2024|archive-date=February 25, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240225014303/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-orlando-sentinel-one-more-adventure/141568100/|url-status=live}} For three years, the station had a weekly program of organ music. A freelance photographer sold still images of accidents and news events for the station's newscasts.{{r|Orla040627}}

In 1957, Orlando Broadcasting Company sold the WDBO stations for $3 million to the Cherry Broadcasting Company of Providence, Rhode Island. It was owned by William S. Cherry, president of WPRO radio and television in that city, and by two of their senior executives.{{Cite news|url=https://newspapers.com/article/the-orlando-sentinel-awaits-fcc-approval/141565512/|date=April 5, 1957|page=2-A|title=Awaits FCC Approval: WDBO Radio-TV Brings $3 Million|newspaper=The Orlando Sentinel|location=Orlando, Florida|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=February 24, 2024|archive-date=February 24, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240224204857/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-orlando-sentinel-awaits-fcc-approval/141565512/|url-status=live}} Cherry died in 1961;{{Cite news|url=https://newspapers.com/article/orlando-evening-star-william-s-cherry-d/141565744/|date=April 13, 1961|page=1A|first=Dave|last=Howell|title=William S. Cherry Dies At Age 56|newspaper=Orlando Evening Star|location=Orlando, Florida|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=February 24, 2024|archive-date=February 24, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240224204853/https://www.newspapers.com/article/orlando-evening-star-william-s-cherry-d/141565744/|url-status=live}} his wife, Mollie, took over the management of the WDBO stations and the Cherry Plaza Hotel in Orlando.{{Cite news|url=https://newspapers.com/article/the-orlando-sentinel-orlandos-first-lad/141566024/|date=October 9, 1961|page=6-A|first=Jean|last=Yothers|title=Orlando's First Lady At Home: Mrs. William S. Cherry Jr. Takes Over Management Of Cherry Enterprises|newspaper=The Orlando Sentinel|location=Orlando, Florida|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=February 24, 2024|archive-date=February 24, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240224204856/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-orlando-sentinel-orlandos-first-lad/141566024/|url-status=live}}

Outlet Company ownership

In January 1963, Cherry Broadcasting Company announced it was negotiating to sell the WDBO stations to The Outlet Company, a Providence-based department store company and owner of WJAR radio and television there.{{Cite news|url=https://newspapers.com/article/orlando-evening-star-wdbo-sale-negotiate/141566082/|date=January 23, 1963|page=1-A|title=WDBO Sale Negotiated|newspaper=Orlando Evening Star|location=Orlando, Florida|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=February 24, 2024|archive-date=February 24, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240224204859/https://www.newspapers.com/article/orlando-evening-star-wdbo-sale-negotiate/141566082/|url-status=live}} After receiving FCC approval, the transaction was completed effective August 1.{{Cite news|url=https://newspapers.com/article/the-orlando-sentinel-radio-tv-outlets-i/141566576/|date=August 21, 1963|page=3-A|title=Radio, TV Outlets Included: WDBO Sale Completed|newspaper=The Orlando Sentinel|location=Orlando, Florida|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=February 24, 2024|archive-date=February 24, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240224204900/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-orlando-sentinel-radio-tv-outlets-i/141566576/|url-status=live}} In 1966, Outlet completed a {{convert|4400|ft2|m2|adj=on}} addition to the {{convert|10000|ft2|m2|adj=on}} original studio, which featured an enlarged newsroom as well as a fallout shelter.{{Cite news|url=https://newspapers.com/article/the-orlando-sentinel-things-grow-bigger/142111121/|date=September 25, 1966|pages=1-B, [https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-orlando-sentinel-wdbo-expands-facili/142111167/ 2-B]|first=Jean|last=Reiman|title=Things Grow Bigger Out In Texas, Avenue That Is|newspaper=The Orlando Sentinel|location=Orlando, Florida|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=February 26, 2024|archive-date=February 26, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240226070619/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-orlando-sentinel-things-grow-bigger/142111121/|url-status=live}}

WDBO-TV and WFTV in 1966 proposed constructing, on a joint basis, a new TV tower near Bithlo.{{Cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-evening-tribune-may-triple-tv-recept/129464741/|date=August 4, 1966|pages=1-A, [https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-evening-tribune-tv-tower/129464755/ 2-A]|first=Bob|last=Morley|title=May Triple TV Reception: Giant Tower Going Up: Channels 6 and 9 In Joint Venture|newspaper=The Evening Tribune|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=August 5, 2023|archive-date=August 5, 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230805092604/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-evening-tribune-may-triple-tv-recept/129464741/|url-status=live}} channel 6 was the first to switch to the new tower, relocating in June 1969. It was the tallest structure in Florida at {{convert|1484|ft|m}}.{{Cite news|url=https://newspapers.com/article/the-orlando-sentinel-wdbo-using-new-towe/142010735/|date=June 21, 1969|page=5-C|title=WDBO Using New Tower|newspaper=The Orlando Sentinel|location=Orlando, Florida|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=February 24, 2024|archive-date=February 24, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240224214532/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-orlando-sentinel-wdbo-using-new-towe/142010735/|url-status=live}} The new tower was eagerly awaited in Brevard County, where reception of the Orlando and Daytona Beach stations had historically been poor.{{Cite news|url=https://newspapers.com/article/florida-today-tall-towers-awaited-to-he/142010822/|date=April 30, 1969|page=14G|title=Tall Towers Awaited To 'Help the Picture'|newspaper=Today|location=Cocoa, Florida|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=February 24, 2024|archive-date=February 24, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240224214534/https://www.newspapers.com/article/florida-today-tall-towers-awaited-to-he/142010822/|url-status=live}} this was activated in 1970, replacing the mast at its Orlo Vista site.{{Cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/orlando-evening-star-tonight-we-switch-t/129464708/|date=August 26, 1970|page=19-A|title=Tonight we switch to the new tower and there'll be...Better Looking on Channel 9 WFTV|newspaper=Orlando Evening Star|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=August 5, 2023|archive-date=August 5, 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230805092606/https://www.newspapers.com/article/orlando-evening-star-tonight-we-switch-t/129464708/|url-status=live}} The {{convert|1549|ft|m|adj=on}} tower had been delayed a year because of manufacturing issues at General Electric.{{Cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/florida-today-new-tower-finally-arrives/129464668/|date=August 11, 1970|page=4D|title=New Tower Finally Arrives At Orlando's Channel 9|newspaper=Today|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=August 5, 2023|archive-date=August 5, 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230805092630/https://www.newspapers.com/article/florida-today-new-tower-finally-arrives/129464668/|url-status=live}}

The tower collapsed on June 8, 1973, while workers were installing an antenna for public station WMFE-TV; two people died.{{Cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-orlando-sentinel-tower-falls-here-2/129464796/|date=June 8, 1973|pages=1-A, [https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-orlando-sentinel-bithlo-tower-crashe/129464818/ 2-A]|edition=Evening|title=Tower Falls Here; 2 Die: Bithlo Site 'Devastated' By Collapse|newspaper=Sentinel Star|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=August 5, 2023|archive-date=August 5, 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230805093115/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-orlando-sentinel-tower-falls-here-2/129464796/|url-status=live}} WFTV was taken out of service, while channel 6 was able to quickly revert to its previous facility.{{Cite news|url=https://newspapers.com/article/the-palm-beach-post-fall-survivor-tower/142011115/|date=June 10, 1973|page=247|title=Fall Survivor: Tower Collapsed Like a Telescope|newspaper=The Palm Beach Post|location=West Palm Beach, Florida|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=February 24, 2024|archive-date=February 24, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240224214536/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-palm-beach-post-fall-survivor-tower/142011115/|url-status=live}} The collapse had a substantial impact on ratings for the three local stations: an unaffected WESH took the lead in news, while leader WDBO sank to second and WFTV remained in third.{{Cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-orlando-sentinel-tower-factor-in-ne/129464856/|date=April 16, 1975|page=8-E|first=Noel|last=Holston|title=Tower: Factor In News Race|newspaper=Sentinel Star|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=August 5, 2023|archive-date=August 5, 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230805093140/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-orlando-sentinel-tower-factor-in-ne/129464856/|url-status=live}} WFTV was the first of the three television stations affected to transmit from the replacement tower on the site, switching in October 1975;{{Cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-orlando-sentinel-channel-9-switches/129464922/|date=October 26, 1975|page=9-B|title=Channel 9 Switches To New Tower|newspaper=Sentinel Star|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=August 5, 2023|archive-date=August 5, 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230805093226/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-orlando-sentinel-channel-9-switches/129464922/|url-status=live}} WDBO-TV soon followed.{{Cite news|url=https://newspapers.com/article/the-orlando-sentinel-channel-24-beams-to/129464848/|date=November 17, 1975|page=8-D|title=Channel 24 Beams Tonight|newspaper=The Orlando Sentinel|location=Orlando, Florida|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=February 24, 2024|archive-date=February 24, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240224214533/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-orlando-sentinel-channel-24-beams-to/129464848/|url-status=live}}

WDBO briefly moved back into the lead in early evening news ratings after the new tower went into place, though its 11 p.m. news lagged WESH.{{Cite news|url=https://newspapers.com/article/the-orlando-sentinel-major-shakeup-at-ch/129464948/|date=August 14, 1976|page=8-D|first=Noel|last=Holston|title=Major Shakeup At Channel 9|newspaper=Sentinel Star|location=Orlando, Florida|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=February 25, 2024|archive-date=February 25, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240225014258/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-orlando-sentinel-major-shakeup-at-ch/129464948/|url-status=live}} That year, after hiring Frank Magid and Associates as a consultant, the station demoted longtime anchor Ben Aycrigg from the late newscast in an evident push that favored younger talent.{{Cite news|url=https://newspapers.com/article/the-orlando-sentinel-wdbo-changes-shift/142011591/|date=March 31, 1976|page=106|title=WDBO Changes Shift Aycrigg|newspaper=The Orlando Sentinel|location=Orlando, Florida|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=February 25, 2024|archive-date=February 25, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240225014257/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-orlando-sentinel-wdbo-changes-shift/142011591/|url-status=live}} By 1978, bolstered by an ascendant ABC and changes to its newscasts, a rejuvenated WFTV was the number-one station in Central Florida, consigning WDBO-TV to second or third place.{{Cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-orlando-sentinel-after-long-climb-c/129464967/|date=December 28, 1978|page=8-B|first=Noel|last=Holston|title=After long climb, Channel 9 news No. 1|newspaper=The Orlando Sentinel|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=August 5, 2023|archive-date=August 5, 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230805093121/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-orlando-sentinel-after-long-climb-c/129464967/|url-status=live}} The easing out of Aycrigg, who was considered the Orlando equivalent of Walter Cronkite, coincided with this decline; Aycrigg continued to preside over the noon news, which was channel 6's best-performing newscast,{{Cite news|url=https://newspapers.com/article/the-orlando-sentinel-a-few-moments-with/141568307/|date=April 2, 1995|pages=Florida Magazine 6, [https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-orlando-sentinel-aycrigg/141568418/ 7]|title=A few moments with Ben Aycrigg: A humble glimpse at Orlando's broadcasting legend|newspaper=The Orlando Sentinel|location=Orlando, Florida|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=February 25, 2024|archive-date=February 25, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240225014256/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-orlando-sentinel-a-few-moments-with/141568307/|url-status=live}} until 1996.{{Cite news|url=https://newspapers.com/article/the-orlando-sentinel-channel-6s-aycrigg/141568623/|date=September 4, 1996|page=A-2|first=Hal|last=Boedeker|title=Channel 6's Aycrigg will sign off in the fall|newspaper=The Orlando Sentinel|location=Orlando, Florida|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=February 25, 2024|archive-date=February 25, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240225014259/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-orlando-sentinel-channel-6s-aycrigg/141568623/|url-status=live}}

=Call sign change to WCPX and studio relocation=

Outlet agreed to merge with Columbia Pictures, a subsidiary of The Coca-Cola Company, in 1982. The deal fell through, but Outlet agreed to sell the WDBO radio stations, which would have been required to receive FCC approval. That sale went ahead; WDBO radio, which had existed since 1924, kept that call sign, and channel 6 had to change. The call sign WCPX-TV—for "Colpix", the abbreviation of Columbia Pictures—had already been chosen for the new station. In spite of Columbia not buying Outlet, station management opted to keep the new designation, which took effect on June 6, 1982.{{Cite news|url=https://newspapers.com/article/the-orlando-sentinel-call-letter-change/141567604/|date=May 27, 1982|page=E-1|first=Noel|last=Holston|title=Call-letter change risky for station|newspaper=The Orlando Sentinel|location=Orlando, Florida|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=February 24, 2024|archive-date=February 24, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240224214524/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-orlando-sentinel-call-letter-change/141567604/|url-status=live}} In what was the second-largest group station deal for its time, in 1983, Outlet was purchased by the Rockefeller Group.{{cite news|url=https://worldradiohistory.com/Archive-BC/BC-1983/BC-1983-05-09.pdf|date=May 9, 1983|work=Broadcasting|via=World Radio History|id={{ProQuest|1014697378}}|title=Outlet purchased for $332 million: Rockefeller Center Inc. set to buy Rhode Island group broadcaster|pages=28–29|access-date=August 27, 2022|archive-date=November 8, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211108151326/https://worldradiohistory.com/Archive-BC/BC-1983/BC-1983-05-09.pdf|url-status=live}}

As early as 1979, Outlet began pursuing the construction of new studios for WDBO-TV. After a two-year search, it sold its land parcel on Texas Avenue in 1981 to a Massachusetts developer{{Cite news|url=https://newspapers.com/article/the-orlando-sentinel-orlando-office-park/141567157/|date=October 21, 1981|page=12-D|first=Dick|last=Marlowe|title=Orlando office park going up|newspaper=Sentinel Star|location=Orlando, Florida|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=February 24, 2024|archive-date=February 24, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240224214536/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-orlando-sentinel-orlando-office-park/141567157/|url-status=live}} Outlet lost a court battle in its attempt to use tax-free bonds to build the studio facility,{{Cite news|url=https://newspapers.com/article/the-orlando-sentinel-wcpx-loses-court-te/141567778/|date=June 15, 1982|pages=D-1, [https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-orlando-sentinel-wcpx/141567726/ D-8]|first=Suzy|last=Hagstrom|title=WCPX loses court test for tax-free bonds|newspaper=The Orlando Sentinel|location=Orlando, Florida|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=February 24, 2024|archive-date=February 24, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240224213020/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-orlando-sentinel-wcpx-loses-court-te/141567778/|url-status=live}} The new facility, known as Broadcast House,{{Cite news|url=https://newspapers.com/article/the-orlando-sentinel-the-broadcast-house/141569494/|date=March 12, 1984|page=E1|title=The Broadcast House|newspaper=The Orlando Sentinel|location=Orlando, Florida|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=February 24, 2024|archive-date=February 24, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240224214538/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-orlando-sentinel-the-broadcast-house/141569494/|url-status=live}} opened on March 5, 1984.{{Cite news|url=https://newspapers.com/article/the-orlando-sentinel-the-situation-is-a/141569428/|date=March 12, 1984|pages=D-1, [https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-orlando-sentinel-wcpx/141569624/ D-6]|first=Noel|last=Holston|title=The situation is a comedy for Channel 6|newspaper=The Orlando Sentinel|location=Orlando, Florida|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=February 24, 2024|archive-date=February 24, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240224213021/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-orlando-sentinel-the-situation-is-a/141569428/|url-status=live}}

First Media ownership

Outlet pared down its holdings in 1986, selling off three of its television stations to finance the $625 million buyout of the group by its management from the Rockefeller Group. At that point, WCPX was sold to First Media Corporation, a private company controlled by the Marriott family separately from the Marriott Corporation, for $200 million—at that time, the highest price paid for an Orlando television station.{{cite news |title=WCPX gets a new owner in record $200 million deal |url=https://www.orlandosentinel.com/1986/03/18/wcpx-gets-a-new-owner-in-record-200-million-deal/ |first=Suzy |last=Hagstrom |access-date=November 2, 2023 |work=Orlando Sentinel |date=March 18, 1986 |archive-date=November 2, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231102190802/https://www.orlandosentinel.com/1986/03/18/wcpx-gets-a-new-owner-in-record-200-million-deal/ |url-status=live }} It was the first television station to be acquired by First Media, which at the time owned 11 radio stations.{{Cite news|last=Schwinn|first=Beth|date=July 21, 1986|title=Marriott Clan Is Expanding Sideline Firm|url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/archive/business/1986/07/21/marriott-clan-is-expanding-sideline-firm/6b0d22dc-37e6-4bce-b463-b28d014b6d23/|access-date=August 6, 2021|newspaper=The Washington Post|language=en-US}} The radio group was sold the following year to a partnership controlled by Cook Inlet Region, Inc., but WCPX-TV remained with First Media.{{cite news |last1=Yorke |first1=Jeffrey |title=First Media to sell its radio stations |url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/archive/business/1987/07/14/first-media-to-sell-its-radio-stations/00c9d2ed-2331-4c09-9b45-efb1e932f431/ |access-date=November 2, 2023 |newspaper=Washington Post |date=July 14, 1987}}

First Media's ownership of WCPX-TV did not get off to a good start. The company bought WCPX-TV for a record price at the peak of broadcast station valuations in the 1980s. Between May 1986 and February 1989, the station slipped from second in total-day ratings to third, matching the position of its evening newscasts. The company shunned outside promotion and showed an unwillingness to make needed investments to keep pace.{{Cite news|url=https://newspapers.com/article/the-orlando-sentinel-watching-tv-ratings/141563426/|date=March 13, 1989|pages=Central Florida Business 1, [https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-orlando-sentinel-ratings/141563286/ 18]|title=Watching TV ratings: WCPX-Channel 6 lags in market as problems over identity persist|newspaper=The Orlando Sentinel|location=Orlando, Florida|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=February 25, 2024|archive-date=February 25, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240225011957/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-orlando-sentinel-watching-tv-ratings/141563426/|url-status=live}} In the latter front, the high purchase price paid by First Media diminished the company's ability to spend on capital expenses.{{r|os-wcpxspectorsky}} Popular personalities such as Carole Nelson and Mike Burger were fired. Glenn T. Potter, who served as company president for WCPX-TV's first five years under First Media, lacked prior experience in running TV stations and was attributed with many unpopular and unwise decisions; he was demoted in 1991 to head up a radio division that owned no stations.{{Cite news|url=https://newspapers.com/article/the-orlando-sentinel-potters-demotion-i/141564633/|date=June 27, 1991|page=E-1|first=Greg|last=Dawson|title=Potter's demotion is boon for Channel 6|newspaper=The Orlando Sentinel|location=Orlando, Florida|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=February 25, 2024|archive-date=February 25, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240225010453/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-orlando-sentinel-potters-demotion-i/141564633/|url-status=live}}{{Cite news|url=https://newspapers.com/article/the-orlando-sentinel-the-anchor-isnt-al/132702191/|date=September 4, 1991|page=E-1|first=Gregg|last=Dawson|title=The anchor isn't all that made WCPX sink|newspaper=The Orlando Sentinel|location=Orlando, Florida|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=February 25, 2024|archive-date=February 25, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240225011959/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-orlando-sentinel-the-anchor-isnt-al/132702191/|url-status=live}} In 1990, the station began producing a 10 p.m. newscast for air on a public access channel of the local CableVision of Central Florida system;{{Cite news|url=https://newspapers.com/article/the-orlando-sentinel-a-10-pm-broadcast/142092808/|date=May 9, 1990|page=E-1|first=Greg|last=Dawson|title=A 10 p.m. broadcast: News without snooze?|newspaper=The Orlando Sentinel|location=Orlando, Florida|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=February 25, 2024|archive-date=February 26, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240226070632/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-orlando-sentinel-a-10-pm-broadcast/142092808/|url-status=live}} the next year, it moved to WKCF (channel 68, then channel 18),{{Cite news|url=https://newspapers.com/article/the-orlando-sentinel-northern-exposure/142093012/|date=June 5, 1991|page=E-1|first=Greg|last=Dawson|title='Northern Exposure': Good news, bad news|newspaper=The Orlando Sentinel|location=Orlando, Florida|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=February 25, 2024|archive-date=February 25, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240225223818/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-orlando-sentinel-northern-exposure/142093012/|url-status=live}} where channel 6 continued to produce it through the end of 2000.{{Cite news|url=https://newspapers.com/article/the-orlando-sentinel-winds-of-change-at/142093160/|date=January 6, 2001|page=E12|first=Jim|last=Abbott|title=Winds of change at WKMG—Gale leaves anchor position|newspaper=The Orlando Sentinel|location=Orlando, Florida|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=February 25, 2024|archive-date=February 26, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240226080623/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-orlando-sentinel-winds-of-change-at/142093160/|url-status=live}}

Under Mike Schweitzer, the station changed in February 1992 to a more aggressive format with anchors walking around the news set. David Wittman was hired from Boston to anchor the news, replacing eight-year WCPX veteran Glenn Rinker.{{Cite news|url=https://newspapers.com/article/the-orlando-sentinel-revamped-6-newscast/142029808/|date=February 6, 1992|pages=E-1, [https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-orlando-sentinel-a-look-at-the-new-l/142029916/ E-6]|first=Greg|last=Dawson|title=Revamped 6 newscast is full-tilt show biz|newspaper=The Orlando Sentinel|location=Orlando, Florida|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=February 25, 2024|archive-date=February 25, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240225011958/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-orlando-sentinel-revamped-6-newscast/142029808/|url-status=live}} The new format did not show much promise; ratings remained in third or, in one instance, fractionally ahead of WESH for second.{{Cite news|url=https://newspapers.com/article/the-orlando-sentinel-wesh-left-in-dust-o/142030080/|date=March 8, 1993|page=D-1|first=Greg|last=Dawson|title=WESH left in dust of latest ratings race|newspaper=The Orlando Sentinel|location=Orlando, Florida|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=February 25, 2024|archive-date=February 25, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240225012000/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-orlando-sentinel-wesh-left-in-dust-o/142030080/|url-status=live}} In October 1993, veteran anchor Bud Hedinger, who had worked at WFTV in the 1980s, was added to the anchor team;{{Cite news|url=https://newspapers.com/article/the-orlando-sentinel-ex-wftv-anchor-hedi/142030224/|date=September 15, 1993|page=A-2|title=Ex-WFTV anchor Hedinger joins WCPX lineup Oct. 4|newspaper=The Orlando Sentinel|location=Orlando, Florida|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=February 25, 2024|archive-date=February 25, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240225010451/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-orlando-sentinel-ex-wftv-anchor-hedi/142030224/|url-status=live}} ratings increased, and the station expanded by adding a weeknight newscast at 5:30 p.m. and weekend morning news, as well as new equipment.{{Cite news|url=https://newspapers.com/article/the-orlando-sentinel-robin-chapman-is-th/142030401/|date=December 20, 1993|page=D-1|first=Greg|last=Dawson|title=Robin Chapman is the consummate pro|newspaper=The Orlando Sentinel|location=Orlando, Florida|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=February 25, 2024|archive-date=February 25, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240225010452/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-orlando-sentinel-robin-chapman-is-th/142030401/|url-status=live}}

First Media used Orlando and WCPX-TV as a springboard into the national syndicated programming market. Over the course of the 1980s, the station increased its production staff and aired a series of music specials. In 1990, First Media set up a program production unit, First Media Entertainment, producing pilots of syndicated shows under contract;{{Cite news|page=41|title=Marriott launches production facility from WCPX-TV|work=Broadcasting|date=December 25, 1989|id={{ProQuest|1014730143}} }} two years later, it and Genesis Entertainment syndicated a special on the Academy Awards to stations nationwide as well as Emergency Call, showing paramedics on duty.{{Cite news|url=https://newspapers.com/article/the-orlando-sentinel-production-team-aim/141564270/|date=March 28, 1992|pages=E-1, [https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-orlando-sentinel-home-grown-first-me/141564327/ E-3]|first=Catherine|last=Hinman|title=Production team aims high|newspaper=The Orlando Sentinel|location=Orlando, Florida|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=February 25, 2024|archive-date=February 25, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240225011956/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-orlando-sentinel-production-team-aim/141564270/|url-status=live}}

Brooke Spectorsky became WCPX-TV's general manager in October 1994. His arrival coincided with a change in philosophy at First Media, which acquired two other TV stations (WHNS in Asheville, North Carolina, and KPDX in Portland, Oregon) and showed a much-increased willingness to invest in the station.{{r|os-wcpxspectorsky}} Under Spectorsky, the station reduced its preemptions of CBS network programs—most notably Picket Fences, which it aired in late night hours—by nearly two-thirds.{{cite news |title=Viewers' views of local news: It's a crime! |url=https://www.orlandosentinel.com/1995/04/05/viewers-views-of-local-news-its-a-crime/ |access-date=November 2, 2023 |work=Orlando Sentinel |date=April 5, 1995 |first=Hal |last=Boedeker |archive-date=November 2, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231102211346/https://www.orlandosentinel.com/1995/04/05/viewers-views-of-local-news-its-a-crime/ |url-status=live }}{{cite news |first=Jim |last=Abbott |title=Trying to get with the program |url=https://www.orlandosentinel.com/1996/12/23/trying-to-get-with-the-program/ |access-date=November 2, 2023 |work=Orlando Sentinel |date=December 23, 1996 |archive-date=November 2, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231102211348/https://www.orlandosentinel.com/1996/12/23/trying-to-get-with-the-program/ |url-status=live }} First Media purchased two microwave newsgathering trucks and a satellite truck.{{cite news |first=Rene |last=Stutzman |title=Spectorsky tries to send a signal |url=https://www.orlandosentinel.com/1995/04/24/spectorsky-tries-to-send-a-signal/ |access-date=November 2, 2023 |work=Orlando Sentinel |date=April 24, 1995 |archive-date=November 2, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231102211345/https://www.orlandosentinel.com/1995/04/24/spectorsky-tries-to-send-a-signal/ |url-status=live }} Ten positions were added to the news department. In June 1995, the station's newscasts were completely relaunched with a more traditional format, featuring a new female anchor—Grace Rabold—as well as a new logo and presentation.{{Cite news|url=https://newspapers.com/article/the-orlando-sentinel-wcpx-to-unveil-new/132610567/|date=June 25, 1995|page=A-2|first=Hal|last=Boedeker|title=WCPX to unveil new image|newspaper=The Orlando Sentinel|location=Orlando, Florida|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=February 25, 2024|archive-date=February 26, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240226070633/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-orlando-sentinel-wcpx-to-unveil-new/132610567/|url-status=live}} The $5 million overhaul did not lead to any increases in ratings until November 1996, when the station posted its best news viewership in years.{{Cite news|url=https://newspapers.com/article/the-orlando-sentinel-stations-new-ident/141562949/|date=December 23, 1996|pages=Central Florida Business 12, [https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-orlando-sentinel-hot-property/141563029/ 13]|first=Rene|last=Stutzman|title=Station's new identification: Hot property: Many are tuning into the bidding for WCPX|newspaper=The Orlando Sentinel|location=Orlando, Florida|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=February 25, 2024|archive-date=February 25, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240225223707/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-orlando-sentinel-stations-new-ident/141562949/|url-status=live}}

Graham ownership

In October 1996, First Media put all three of its stations up for sale.{{cite news|first1=Rene|last1=Stutzman|first2=Jim|last2=Abbott|title=For sale sign put on Channel 6|url=https://www.orlandosentinel.com/1996/10/25/for-sale-sign-put-on-channel-6/|access-date=November 2, 2023|work=Orlando Sentinel|date=October 25, 1996|archive-date=November 2, 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231102111257/https://www.orlandosentinel.com/1996/10/25/for-sale-sign-put-on-channel-6/|url-status=live}} WCPX-TV received heavy interest from a variety of buyers including Gannett; the Meredith Corporation, owner of Orlando Fox affiliate WOFL; Post-Newsweek Stations; and Sunbeam Television.{{Cite web|date=January 22, 1997|title=First Media affils drawing top bids|url=https://variety.com/1997/tv/news/first-media-affils-drawing-top-bids-1117433174/|access-date=August 13, 2021|website=Variety|language=en-US|archive-date=August 14, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210814004943/https://variety.com/1997/tv/news/first-media-affils-drawing-top-bids-1117433174/|url-status=live}} On January 24, 1997, Meredith announced its acquisition of all three First Media Television stations for $435 million.{{cite news |last1=Segal |first1=David |title=Marriott-controlled firm to sell 4 TV stations to Meredith Corp. |url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/archive/business/1997/01/25/marriott-controlled-firm-to-sell-4-tv-stations-to-meredith-corp/c3115935-7139-4c9d-99b6-e208174dae8b/ |access-date=November 2, 2023 |newspaper=Washington Post |date=January 25, 1997 |archive-date=August 28, 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170828224906/https://www.washingtonpost.com/archive/business/1997/01/25/marriott-controlled-firm-to-sell-4-tv-stations-to-meredith-corp/c3115935-7139-4c9d-99b6-e208174dae8b/ |url-status=live }} At the time, duopolies were not allowed; Meredith had to select a station to keep. Employees at both stations suggested that WOFL would be chosen for sale,{{Cite news|url=https://newspapers.com/article/the-orlando-sentinel-meredith-to-purchas/141564115/|date=January 25, 1997|pages=C-1, [https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-orlando-sentinel-employee-wofl-work/141564185/ C-9]|first=Rene|last=Stutzman|title=Meredith to purchase Channel 6|newspaper=The Orlando Sentinel|location=Orlando, Florida|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=February 25, 2024|archive-date=February 26, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240226070946/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-orlando-sentinel-meredith-to-purchas/141564115/|url-status=live}} but Meredith decided to keep WOFL. In June 1997, Meredith swapped WCPX to Post-Newsweek Stations in exchange for WFSB in Hartford, Connecticut, and $60 million.{{Cite web|date=June 2, 1997|title=Meredith trades for Connecticut TV station|url=http://apnews.com/article/a4c7637daa7e6acd9de4a3e537ffc97a/|access-date=August 13, 2021|website=AP|language=en-US|archive-date=August 10, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220810192802/https://apnews.com/article/a4c7637daa7e6acd9de4a3e537ffc97a/|url-status=live}} The $275 million transaction set the new single-station sales price for an Orlando TV station. While Post-Newsweek traded up to a stronger growth market, Meredith acquired WFSB, the leading TV station in Connecticut with a cash flow 40 percent higher.{{Cite news|url=https://newspapers.com/article/the-orlando-sentinel-washington-post-co/141571712/|date=June 3, 1997|pages=B-1, [https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-orlando-sentinel-post-looks-to-futur/141571598/ B-4]|title=Washington Post Co. to buy WCPX: CBS affiliate to be traded in record $275 million deal|newspaper=The Orlando Sentinel|location=Orlando, Florida|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=February 25, 2024|archive-date=February 25, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240225223708/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-orlando-sentinel-washington-post-co/141571712/|url-status=live}}

File:Katharine Graham 927-9432 (cropped retouched).jpg, WKMG-TV's namesake]]

On January 30, 1998, the station changed its call sign to WKMG-TV in honor of Katharine Meyer Graham, the longtime publisher of The Washington Post. Coinciding with the new call sign, the station debuted another top-to-bottom overhaul of its newscasts, including a new female anchor—Leslye Gale—as well as a new logo and set.{{cite news |first=Jim |last=Abbott |title=New owner gives Channel 6 a new name, look |url=https://www.orlandosentinel.com/1998/01/29/new-owner-gives-channel-6-a-new-name-look/ |access-date=November 2, 2023 |work=Orlando Sentinel |date=January 29, 1998 |archive-date=November 2, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231102211345/https://www.orlandosentinel.com/1998/01/29/new-owner-gives-channel-6-a-new-name-look/ |url-status=live }}

In spite of turnover in news personalities and senior management, WKMG's newscasts slowly became competitive in some time periods,{{Cite news|url=https://newspapers.com/article/the-orlando-sentinel-tv-stations-drop-an/129466005/|date=April 27, 2001|pages=E1, [https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-orlando-sentinel-for-first-time-wft/129466001/ E3]|first1=Nancy|last1=Imperiale Wellons|first2=Hal|last2=Boedeker|title=TV stations drop anchor|newspaper=The Orlando Sentinel|location=Orlando, Florida|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=February 25, 2024|archive-date=February 26, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240226070947/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-orlando-sentinel-tv-stations-drop-an/129466005/|url-status=live}} notably 11 p.m., by 2001.{{Cite news|url=https://newspapers.com/article/the-orlando-sentinel-after-shaking-up-wk/142100748/|date=July 5, 2001|page=A2|first=Hal|last=Boedeker|title=After shaking up WKMG, manager is leaving|newspaper=The Orlando Sentinel|location=Orlando, Florida|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=February 25, 2024|archive-date=February 26, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240226070947/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-orlando-sentinel-after-shaking-up-wk/142100748/|url-status=live}} That year saw several other changes at WKMG-TV, which began broadcasting a digital signal on channel 26{{r|rei}} on April 1, 2001;{{Cite book|chapter=WKMG-DT|title=Television and Cable Factbook|volume=74|page=A-534|date=2006}} it originated from a new purpose-built tower, shared with WESH, near Christmas.{{Cite news|url=https://newspapers.com/article/the-orlando-sentinel-tvs-digital-dilemm/142113130/|date=December 3, 2000|pages=H1, [https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-orlando-sentinel-high-cost-uncertai/142113181/ H6]|first=Christopher|last=Boyd|title=TV's digital dilemma: Which comes first—equipment or programming?|newspaper=The Orlando Sentinel|location=Orlando, Florida|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=February 26, 2024|archive-date=February 26, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240226070946/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-orlando-sentinel-tvs-digital-dilemm/142113130/|url-status=live}} The station rebranded as Local 6 that September as part of broader changes instituted by Henry Maldonado, a Post-Newsweek Stations corporate official who split his time between company headquarters in Detroit and Orlando.{{Cite news|url=https://newspapers.com/article/the-orlando-sentinel-for-the-love-of-tv/142112442/|date=September 20, 2001|pages=E1, [https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-orlando-sentinel-maldonado-has-wkmg/142112407/ E3]|title=For the love of TV: New boss is energizing WKMG|newspaper=The Orlando Sentinel|location=Orlando, Florida|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=February 26, 2024|archive-date=February 26, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240226070947/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-orlando-sentinel-for-the-love-of-tv/142112442/|url-status=live}}

On May 1, 2009, the station's 4, 5 and 5:30 p.m. newscasts were dropped, with the 5–6 p.m. news block replaced by Dr. Phil, and a new hour-long newscast at 6 p.m. debuted, moving CBS Evening News to 7 p.m. The changes were accompanied by a reduction of 15 to 20 employees.{{Cite news|url=https://newspapers.com/article/the-orlando-sentinel-wkmg-cuts-staff-pl/142111999/|date=May 1, 2009|page=B3|title=WKMG cuts staff, plans 1-hour 6 p.m. newscast|first=Hal|last=Boedeker|newspaper=Orlando Sentinel|location=Orlando, Florida|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=February 26, 2024|archive-date=February 26, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240226070959/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-orlando-sentinel-wkmg-cuts-staff-pl/142111999/|url-status=live}} Even as the station showed ratings strength in late news,{{Cite news|url=https://newspapers.com/article/the-orlando-sentinel-wkmg-breaks-wftvs/142111885/|date=February 5, 2010|page=B6|first=Hal|last=Boedeker|title=WKMG breaks WFTV's news dominance at 11|newspaper=Orlando Sentinel|location=Orlando, Florida|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=February 26, 2024|archive-date=February 26, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240226071113/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-orlando-sentinel-wkmg-breaks-wftvs/142111885/|url-status=live}} the syndicated talk show proved an underperforming lead-in to the 6 p.m. news.{{Cite news|url=https://newspapers.com/article/the-orlando-sentinel-wkmg-wesh-cite-rat/142111738/|date=November 27, 2009|page=B5|first=Hal|last=Boedeker|title=WKMG, WESH cite ratings gains: WFTV dominates November news|newspaper=Orlando Sentinel|location=Orlando, Florida|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=February 26, 2024|archive-date=February 26, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240226071329/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-orlando-sentinel-wkmg-wesh-cite-rat/142111738/|url-status=live}} In January 2011, the hour-long 6 p.m. news was dropped, split into 6 and 7 p.m. newscasts around the CBS Evening News.{{Cite news|url=https://newspapers.com/article/the-orlando-sentinel-channel-6-will-spli/142112107/|date=December 4, 2010|page=A2|first=Hal|last=Boedeker|title=Channel 6 will split the news at 6 p.m.|newspaper=The Orlando Sentinel|location=Orlando, Florida|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=February 26, 2024|archive-date=February 26, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240226071339/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-orlando-sentinel-channel-6-will-spli/142112107/|url-status=live}} That September 2011, the station relaunched a half-hour newscast at 5.{{Cite news|url-status=dead|first=Hal|last=Boedeker|url=http://blogs.orlandosentinel.com/entertainment_tv_tvblog/2011/04/wkmg-to-start-5-p-m-newscast-in-early-september.html|title=WKMG to start 5 p.m. newscast in early September|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110430113846/http://blogs.orlandosentinel.com/entertainment_tv_tvblog/2011/04/wkmg-to-start-5-p-m-newscast-in-early-september.html |archive-date=April 30, 2011|work=Orlando Sentinel|date=April 27, 2011}}

Post-Newsweek Stations became Graham Media Group on July 28, 2014.{{cite news |last1=Boedeker |first1=Hal |title=WKMG's owner has new name |url=https://www.orlandosentinel.com/2014/07/28/wkmgs-owner-has-new-name/ |access-date=November 2, 2023 |work=Orlando Sentinel |date=July 28, 2014 |archive-date=November 2, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231102211345/https://www.orlandosentinel.com/2014/07/28/wkmgs-owner-has-new-name/ |url-status=live }} WKMG dropped the "Local 6" branding, which had been used since 2001, and adopted the name News 6.{{cite news |last1=Boedeker |first1=Hal |title=WKMG: Local 6 gone; News 6 arrives |url=https://www.orlandosentinel.com/2015/08/28/wkmg-local-6-gone-news-6-arrives/ |access-date=November 2, 2023 |work=Orlando Sentinel |date=August 28, 2015 |archive-date=November 2, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231102211345/https://www.orlandosentinel.com/2015/08/28/wkmg-local-6-gone-news-6-arrives/ |url-status=live }} The change coincided with another round of new management. While WFTV has remained strong overall, ratings have increased for WKMG in the late 2010s and early 2020s, and late newscasts have benefited from a strong lead-in of CBS prime time programs.{{cite news|url=https://www.orlandosentinel.com/2019/05/23/may-ratings-wkmg-cuts-into-wftvs-dominance/|first=Hal|last=Boedeker|title=May ratings: WKMG cuts into WFTV's dominance|work=Orlando Sentinel|date=May 23, 2019|access-date=February 26, 2024|archive-date=February 26, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240226071339/https://www.orlandosentinel.com/2019/05/23/may-ratings-wkmg-cuts-into-wftvs-dominance/|url-status=live}}{{Cite news |last=Malone |first=Michael |date=December 20, 2021 |title=Local TV Awards: WKMG Newsroom Chief Allison McGinley Is Results-Oriented |url=https://www.nexttv.com/features/wkmgs-newsroom-chief-is-results-oriented |access-date=February 26, 2024 |work=Broadcasting & Cable |language=en |archive-date=May 28, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230528033537/https://www.nexttv.com/features/wkmgs-newsroom-chief-is-results-oriented |url-status=live }} As of December 2023, the station produced {{frac|44|1|2}} hours a week of news programming for broadcast and streaming.{{Cite news|date=January 10, 2024|website=Public Inspection File|publisher=Federal Communications Commission|url=https://publicfiles.fcc.gov/api/manager/download/42f1ad66-bb07-f5ef-30e4-33f012e0044e/08f59c80-e0c2-4895-9475-ab0cf742ec44.pdf|title=Quarterly List of Programming Providing the Most Significant Treatment of Community Issues, October 1, 2023–December 31, 2023}}

Notable former on-air staff

Lisa Colagrossi – anchor (1995–2001){{Cite news|url=https://newspapers.com/article/the-orlando-sentinel-colagrossi-pulls-up/142098744/|date=July 13, 2001|page=A2|first=Hal|last=Boedeker|title=Colagrossi pulls up anchor for new life|newspaper=The Orlando Sentinel|location=Orlando, Florida|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=February 25, 2024|archive-date=February 26, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240226071319/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-orlando-sentinel-colagrossi-pulls-up/142098744/|url-status=live}}
Troy Dungan{{Cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/orlando-evening-star-election-party-cop/142099554/|date=May 6, 1964|page=25-A|first=Bill|last=Summers|title=Election Party 'Cops Area Ratings'|newspaper=Orlando Evening Star|location=Orlando, Florida|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=February 25, 2024|archive-date=February 26, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240226071318/https://www.newspapers.com/article/orlando-evening-star-election-party-cop/142099554/|url-status=live}}
Trace Gallagher – reporter (1993–1996){{Cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-orlando-sentinel-orlando-shaped-many/129484225/|date=January 2, 2011|pages=B1, [https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-orlando-sentinel-tv/129484265/ B4]|first=Hal|last=Boedeker|title=Orlando shaped many in TV news: they talk about the memorable stories, the influential colleagues|newspaper=Orlando Sentinel|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=August 5, 2023|archive-date=August 5, 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230805181238/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-orlando-sentinel-orlando-shaped-many/129484225/|url-status=live}}
Jerry Hodak{{r|Orla640506}}
Mark McEwen – morning news anchor (2004–2005){{Cite news|url=https://newspapers.com/article/the-orlando-sentinel-mcewens-road-to-re/142098892/|date=May 7, 2006|page=F3|first=Hal|last=Boedeker|title=McEwen's road to recovery|newspaper=The Orlando Sentinel|location=Orlando, Florida|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=February 25, 2024|archive-date=February 26, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240226071336/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-orlando-sentinel-mcewens-road-to-re/142098892/|url-status=live}}
Shepard Smith – reporter (1991–1993){{Cite news|url=https://newspapers.com/article/the-orlando-sentinel-so-where-was-cbs-af/142099879/|date=October 30, 1991|page=E-1|first=Greg|last=Dawson|title=So where was CBS after the big game?|newspaper=The Orlando Sentinel|location=Orlando, Florida|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=February 25, 2024|archive-date=February 26, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240226071336/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-orlando-sentinel-so-where-was-cbs-af/142099879/|url-status=live}}{{r|Orla110102}}
Tom Terry – meteorologist{{Cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-orlando-sentinel-celebrity-update/129484570/|date=April 18, 2002|page=E2|title=Celebrity Update|newspaper=Orlando Sentinel|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=August 5, 2023|archive-date=August 5, 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230805190009/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-orlando-sentinel-celebrity-update/129484570/|url-status=live}}

Technical information

=Subchannels=

The station's signal is multiplexed:

class="wikitable" \|+Subchannels of WKMG-TV{{cite web\|title=Digital TV Market Listing for WKMG\|url=http://www.rabbitears.info/market.php?request=station_search&callsign=WKMG#station\|website=RabbitEars.info\|access-date=January 26, 2017\|language=en\|archive-date=February 11, 2017\|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170211080947/http://www.rabbitears.info/market.php?request=station_search&callsign=WKMG#station\|url-status=live}} ! scope = "col" \| Channel ! scope = "col" \| Res. ! scope = "col" \| Aspect ! scope = "col" \| Short name ! scope = "col" \| Programming
scope = "row" \| 6.1 \| 1080i \|\| rowspan=6\| 16:9 \|\| WKMG-DT \|\| CBS
scope = "row" \| 6.2 \| rowspan=5\| 480i \|\| ACrimes \|\| NBC American Crimes
scope = "row" \| 6.3 \| Cozi \|\| Cozi TV
scope = "row" \| 6.4 \| Start \|\| Start TV
scope = "row" \| 6.5 \| Catchy \|\| Catchy Comedy
scope = "row" \| 6.6 \| DABL \|\| Dabl
style="background-color:#DFEBF6; border-top: 2px solid #003399;" ! scope = "row" \| 65.3 \| 480i	16:9	H and I	Heroes & Icons (WRBW)

class="wikitable"

|+Subchannels of WKMG-TV{{cite web|title=Digital TV Market Listing for WKMG|url=http://www.rabbitears.info/market.php?request=station_search&callsign=WKMG#station|website=RabbitEars.info|access-date=January 26, 2017|language=en|archive-date=February 11, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170211080947/http://www.rabbitears.info/market.php?request=station_search&callsign=WKMG#station|url-status=live}}

! scope = "col" | Channel

! scope = "col" | Res.

! scope = "col" | Aspect

! scope = "col" | Short name

! scope = "col" | Programming

scope = "row" | 6.1

| 1080i || rowspan=6| 16:9 || WKMG-DT || CBS

scope = "row" | 6.2

| rowspan=5| 480i || ACrimes || NBC American Crimes

scope = "row" | 6.3

| Cozi || Cozi TV

scope = "row" | 6.4

| Start || Start TV

scope = "row" | 6.5

| Catchy || Catchy Comedy

scope = "row" | 6.6

| DABL || Dabl

style="background-color:#DFEBF6; border-top: 2px solid #003399;"

! scope = "row" | 65.3

| 480i

16:9

H and I

Heroes & Icons (WRBW)

After beginning digital broadcasting in 2001, WKMG-TV ended regular programming on its analog signal, over VHF channel 6, on June 12, 2009.{{Cite news|url=https://newspapers.com/article/the-orlando-sentinel-a-primer-on-the-end/142113478/|date=June 7, 2009|page=G1|first=Etan|last=Horowitz|title=A primer on the end of analog TV|newspaper=The Orlando Sentinel|location=Orlando, Florida|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=February 26, 2024|archive-date=February 26, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240226071704/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-orlando-sentinel-a-primer-on-the-end/142113478/|url-status=live}} The station's digital signal remained on its pre-transition UHF channel 26, using virtual channel 6.{{Cite web |date=May 23, 2006 |title=DTV Tentative Channel Designations for the First and Second Rounds |url=http://hraunfoss.fcc.gov/edocs_public/attachmatch/DA-06-1082A2.pdf |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130829004251/http://hraunfoss.fcc.gov/edocs_public/attachmatch/DA-06-1082A2.pdf |archive-date=August 29, 2013 |access-date=August 29, 2021 |publisher=Federal Communications Commission}} As part of the SAFER Act, WKMG-TV kept its analog signal on the air until July 12 to inform viewers of the digital television transition through a loop of public service announcements from the National Association of Broadcasters.{{cite web|url=https://docs.fcc.gov/public/attachments/DOC-291375A1.pdf|title=UPDATED List of Participants in the Analog Nightlight Program|publisher=Federal Communications Commission|date=June 12, 2009|access-date=June 3, 2024}}

During the trials of Casey Anthony in 2011 and George Zimmerman in 2013, regular daytime programs were moved to the 6.2 subchannel to allow for wall-to-wall trial coverage.{{cite news|title=Casey Anthony: WKMG decides to go wall to wall with trial|url=http://blogs.orlandosentinel.com/entertainment_tv_tvblog/2011/06/casey-anthony-wkmg-decides-to-go-wall-to-wall-with-trial.html|access-date=June 6, 2011|newspaper=The Orlando Sentinel|date=June 3, 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110605234645/http://blogs.orlandosentinel.com/entertainment_tv_tvblog/2011/06/casey-anthony-wkmg-decides-to-go-wall-to-wall-with-trial.html|archive-date=June 5, 2011|url-status=dead}}{{cite news|last=Boedeker|first=Hal|title=George Zimmerman trial to rearrange daytime lineup|url=http://www.orlandosentinel.com/entertainment/blogs/tv-guy/os-george-zimmerman-trial-to-rearrange-daytime-20130621,0,3627724.post|access-date=June 26, 2013|newspaper=Orlando Sentinel|date=June 21, 2013|archive-date=June 27, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130627084942/http://www.orlandosentinel.com/entertainment/blogs/tv-guy/os-george-zimmerman-trial-to-rearrange-daytime-20130621,0,3627724.post|url-status=live}}

WKMG-TV is a participant in Orlando's ATSC 3.0 (NextGen TV) deployment, which rolled out on July 1, 2021.{{Cite news |last=Lafayette |first=Jon |date=July 1, 2021 |title=Orlando Stations Broadcasting Using New ATSC 3.0 Signal |work=Broadcasting & Cable |url=https://www.nexttv.com/news/orlando-stations-broadcasting-using-new-atsc-30-signal |access-date=February 26, 2024 |language=en |archive-date=November 26, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221126120546/https://www.nexttv.com/news/orlando-stations-broadcasting-using-new-atsc-30-signal |url-status=live }}

=Translator=

WKMG-TV operates a translator station, WKMG-LD, in Ocala. The facility was built in 1982 as a translator for WTOG in St. Petersburg and was acquired by First Media in 1995 to improve reception.{{Cite news|last=Stutzman|first=Rene|title=Ocala's 29 may carry Channel 6|date=June 15, 1995|url=https://www.orlandosentinel.com/news/os-xpm-1995-06-15-9506150506-story.html|access-date=March 7, 2021|work=The Orlando Sentinel|language=en-US|archive-date=August 9, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220809104329/https://www.orlandosentinel.com/news/os-xpm-1995-06-15-9506150506-story.html|url-status=live}} Ocala was far enough from Orlando that co-channel reception of WCTV from the Tallahassee area and high-power local radio stations interfered with proper reception of the then-WCPX.{{Cite news|page=9A|first=Harriet|last=Daniels|work=Ocala Star-Banner|title=Channel 6 reception to improve|date=June 15, 1995}}

References

External links

{{Official website|https://www.clickorlando.com/}}
{{FCC-LMS-Facility|74118|WKMG-LD}}
[https://web.archive.org/web/20050314083259/http://www.local6.com/station/71239/detail.html WKMG History]

Category:1954 establishments in Florida

Category:Catchy Comedy affiliates

Category:CBS affiliates

Category:Cozi TV affiliates

Category:Dabl affiliates

Category:Graham Media Group

Category:Start TV affiliates

Category:Television channels and stations established in 1954

KMG-TV