Out the Door in Buffalo

Tegna’s WGRZ lost longtime Anchor/Reporter after he declined to sign a new contract.

The Buffalo News reports that Michael Wooten abruptly left the station after 14 years. Wooten declined to comment on his exit.

The News writes that Wooten wasn’t a happy camper as his contract was about to expire at the end of August.

According to sources, Wooten’s contract had been extended by a month.

The same sources said he declined a contract offer because he wanted to do something new and was abruptly told by General Manager Mark Manders Tuesday to leave the station. Manders couldn't be reached for comment.

The move comes a day after the signature Town Hall 5:30 p.m. program devoted to key issues surrounding Western New York that Wooten has anchored was changed to a regular newscast. Wooten and five other WGRZ staffers called in sick Friday, although it is unclear if that had anything to do with his departure.

“The way he exited after a meeting with Manders after 14 years of quality work can't be good for staff morale,” the Buffalo News wrote.