KARE 11 Anchor Jana Shortal Becomes Emotional as Program Moves to Streaming
The progressive-leaning 'Breaking the News' will transition from broadcast television to an online-only format.
KARE 11 anchor Jana Shortal became visibly emotional Monday while announcing that their broadcast program, "Breaking the News," will move from traditional television to the station's streaming platform, KARE 11 Plus, at the end of the week.
Shortal, who uses they/them pronouns, described the upcoming shift as a "huge leap of faith" and expressed gratitude to viewers for supporting the show over its roughly decade-long run. The program, known for its progressive lens and incorporating Shortal's commentary, will continue as a 30-minute show on the streaming platform.
"We told the stories that mattered, even when they challenged us, as much as they challenged our community," Shortal said during the broadcast, their voice shaking. "It all mattered."
The anchor clarified on social media that the decision was made by management. KARE 11 is owned by Nexstar, the largest local television station operator in the country. Nexstar recently acquired rival Tegna, leading to consolidation and potential cuts within the company.
During Donald Trump's presidency, Nexstar CEO Perry Sook expressed a desire to expand the company and reduce "the level of activist journalism." Shortal's program, with its segments offering personal analysis and commentary, has been seen as fitting that description by some.
Earlier this year, Shortal engaged in a public discussion with commentator Clay Travis regarding his offer of $10 million for a WNBA team to play against a high school boys' team. In another segment, Shortal criticized college athlete Arch Manning for finding an AI-generated clip humorous, which depicted coach Steve Sarkisian in an interview.
Shortal, who has been with KARE 11 since 2003, has previously garnered attention for their gender-nonconforming style. In 2019, they appeared on the "Today" show to discuss their fashion choices, and CNN featured Shortal in a docuseries focusing on identity and community.
In 2024, Shortal received their eighth Regional Emmy for Best Anchor in the Upper Midwest. Reflecting on their career, Shortal previously wrote that their Emmy wins signify that "people like us belong here" in an industry that historically has not featured individuals who look, dress, or identify like them at the anchor desk.