KTLA has terminated one of its top journalists on her birthday in a brutal move.
Ellina Abovian, an Emmy nominated reporter who had been with KTLA for over a decade, was among the staff laid off by the news station as part of restructuring plans on Wednesday.
In addition to Abovian, weekday morning weather anchor Mark Kriski, meteorologist Kacey Montoya, and veteran midday anchors Glen Walker and Lu Parker were also let go.
Following the news, Abovian celebrated her 40th birthday on social media, receiving well-wishes from friends and supporters.
Messages poured in for Abovian, with one friend writing: “Happy birthday to the stunning and talented Ellina.”
On the same day, Abovian released a podcast episode where she appeared to criticize her former employers.
Despite the unexpected turn of events, Abovian expressed gratitude and optimism, stating, “I guess this is 40. Feeling lighter, loved and looking forward.”
In New York, KTLA owner Nexstar also made cuts at its station WPIX-TV as part of the same cost-trimming efforts.
Kriski, a longtime anchor, and Walker, a veteran midday anchor, were among those affected by the layoffs.
Despite the challenges, Walker remains positive about the future and is looking forward to new opportunities.
He declined a formal send-off from the station, as he is still under contract for sixty days.
They presented me with an offer, but I decided to turn it down.
Parker was also a well-known midday anchor and was included in the list of on-air personalities affected by the layoffs.
Montoya was a meteorologist at the station, while Abovian worked as a reporter covering local news in Los Angeles.
Walker shared his thoughts on KTLA’s history, describing it as a pioneering television station in the West with a rich legacy.
“It will be intriguing to observe the station’s future direction,” he remarked.
