O-Town Anchor is Done

After 13 years and on the first day of the May book, WKMG announced that Anchor Lauren Rowe has left the station.

"I love journalism and I love the work I do, but my family and I need a fresh start," Rowe told the Sentinel. "This is such an amazing community that continues to show me love and support. I have no immediate plans right now, but I'm excited to see what opportunities pop up."

In a memo to the staff, WKMG General Manager Skip Valet explained that Rowe "had decided to step away from the anchor desk, effective immediately."

He shared a statement from Rowe:  "I have made the difficult but necessary decision to focus my full attention on my health and family. The outpouring of support I have received from all of you has been heartfelt and greatly appreciated and I will truly miss the privilege you have afforded me by inviting me into your homes each day. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.”

In January, Rowe announced she was taking a break to seek treatment for depression, which she has suffered for many years. Rowe's last day on the air was Jan. 13, and the CBS affiliate announced on Jan. 17 that she would be away.

H/T Orlando Sentinel