News Summary

Providence meteorologist Kelly Bates was recently laid off from ABC6 following the station’s change in ownership. In an emotional announcement, Bates shared her disbelief and future job-seeking plans, encouraging community support. After a successful career at NBC10, her return to ABC6 garnered significant local support. The ownership transition at ABC6 also led to substantial staffing cuts, highlighting the common industry practice during such changes. As Bates navigates this career shift, her strong connection with the community is evident through the overwhelming support she has received.

Providence Meteorologist Kelly Bates Laid Off Again as ABC6 Changes Ownership

Providence, Rhode Island – On September 11, longtime meteorologist Kelly Bates announced that she has been laid off from ABC6 due to the station’s recent change in ownership. In an emotional video shared on social media, Bates expressed disbelief at her situation, revealing that both she and several colleagues were let go as the new parent company deemed her role to be redundant.

In her announcement, Bates stated that she is now seeking new employment opportunities and highlighted her skills as a communicator and her enthusiasm for creativity, also mentioning her work as a bracelet maker. Her post, which has received significant traction with around 1,900 reactions, over 600 comments, and 193 shares as of September 12, indicates a strong community support for Bates amidst her career transition.

Prior to her time at ABC6, Bates had a substantial career at NBC10, where she worked for 17 years before leaving due to a contract dispute in September 2021. She returned to the local television scene when she was hired by ABC6 in June 2022, garnering considerable public support upon her return to the Rhode Island community.

ABC6 Ownership Change

As of September 12, 2023, ABC6 is listed as one of the stations under the newly established Standard Media. The recent ownership shift has resulted in significant staffing cuts, impacting not only Bates but other staff members as well. The decision to lay off several employees reflects the common practice in the media industry during transitions and ownership changes, where new management often reevaluates existing staff roles and structures.

Bates’ Career Highlights

Kelly Bates began her career in meteorology at ABC6 in 2000, working as a weekend night meteorologist. Throughout her career, she has earned multiple Emmy nominations and has been voted as the best female meteorologist in Rhode Island by the readers of Rhode Island Monthly several times. In recognition of her contributions to the field, Bates was also inducted into the Rhode Island Monthly Hall of Fame in July 2022, a testament to her impact on local television and her connection with viewers.

Bates grew up in North Attleboro, Massachusetts, and is a graduate of Bishop Feehan High School. Her education and roots in the local community have played a significant role in her ability to connect with viewers throughout her tenure as a meteorologist.

Community Response

Since Bates made her layoff announcement, the community has shown an outpour of support, reflecting her importance within the local news landscape. Many viewers and fans have left comments expressing their sorrow over her departure while encouraging her in her pursuit of new opportunities. The interaction on her social media post illustrates how deeply she is valued in the local community and how her presence as a meteorologist has made an impact over the years.

In summary, Kelly Bates’ recent layoff from ABC6 marks a significant moment in her career as she navigates a new chapter following the station’s ownership change. As a beloved figure in local meteorology, her next steps are being closely watched by fans and followers who appreciate her long-standing commitment to providing quality weather reporting.

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Additional Resources

• Providence Journal
• GoLocal Prov
• Newsweek
• ABC6
• RI Monthly
• Wikipedia: Kelly Bates
• Google Search: Kelly Bates meteorologist
• Google Scholar: Kelly Bates meteorologist
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Kelly Bates
• Google News: Kelly Bates meteorologist

Author: STAFF HERE PROVIDENCE WRITER

The PROVIDENCE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREProvidence.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Providence, Providence County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as WaterFire, Rhode Island International Film Festival, and Rhode Island Comic Con. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Providence Chamber of Commerce and Providence Warwick Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in finance and manufacturing that power the local economy such as Citizens Financial Group and Textron. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Rhode Island's dynamic landscape.