Signing Off in the Natty

WLWT (Cincy) announced that Sports Director George Vogel will be retiring from the station after an almost 42-year career. Vogel has covered professional, collegiate, and high school sports across Greater Cincinnati and the Tri-State area.

In a statement, Vogel said, "I could not have asked for a more enjoyable career than what I’ve had in Cincinnati at WLWT. It’s tough to leave the daily buzz of a newsroom, but my family, including my wife Lisa, have allowed me to pursue this dream of mine for almost 42 years, and now I feel it’s time to give them back a little more. I’m so appreciative of the people and teams I’ve covered, from backyard games to major league sports. I’m thankful for all the viewers over the decades who allowed us into their homes to bring them the stories of their favorite local teams. And of course, I am indebted to all of my coworkers here at WLWT and Hearst Television. We’ve been through thick and thin together, and hopefully, we had a laugh or two along the way."

WLWT GM Branden Frantz said, "In 2023, WLWT will celebrate its 75th anniversary as the first broadcast TV station in Cincinnati. For more than half of that time, George has been a vital member of our WLWT family, serving the sports community he cares so deeply about. His legacy and commitment will forever be etched into the WLWT News 5 brand. While we will be sorry to see George leave, I am also heartened and grateful for all that he has done and all that he leaves behind."

Vogel’s final sportscast on WLWT will be in March of 2023.