Signing Off in the Burgh

Michelle Wright, a longtime anchor at Hearst-owned WTAE in Pittsburgh, is retiring, the station announced today. Wright is scheduled to step down at the end of February 2026.

Wright spent three decades at the Hearst-owned ABC affiliate, joining WTAE in 1994 as a morning anchor.

During her tenure, she covered all time slots, from morning to evening newscasts, and received multiple accolades, including three regional Emmy Awards.

WTAE President and General Manager Charles W. Wolfertz III highlighted Wright’s role in covering significant regional and national events. "Pittsburghers remember her as a trusted voice for historic stories during her career like the Quecreek Mine Rescue and the September 11th terrorist attacks," Wolfertz said.

In addition to her work in the newsroom, Wright maintained a strong community presence and was involved in various charitable causes, including WTAE-TV's Project Bundle Up. She also served as an adjunct professor at Point Park University.

WTAE News Director Baylor Long praised her professional impact, stating that Wright "has shaped countless young broadcasters and left a remarkable legacy."

Wright described her decision as "bittersweet," adding, "I’m grateful for my time here, but most of all I’m honored the viewers of western Pennsylvania trusted me every day to tell their stories.”