Anchor Brittany Decker Leaves WVTM 13 Desk
WVTM 13 evening anchor Brittany Decker will not return to the anchor desk after becoming a mother in July 2026.
Updated on Nov. 2, 2026 in Child Care
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Brittany Decker will not return to the evening anchor desk at WVTM 13 in Birmingham, Alabama, after beginning maternity leave. She announced the decision on Instagram, saying she hopes to return to the station in the future.
Why it matters
Decker's decision follows the July 2026 birth of her daughter, Jaci Mae, and reflects her stated wish to spend more time with her family. Her departure ends a 15-year journalism career and a seven-year run of marathon running.
Decker's announcement cites a 15-year journalism career and seven years of marathon running that she has stepped away from. The stub does not indicate whether she has a set date for leaving the station or any terms for a future return.
The players
Brittany Decker
Brittany Decker is an evening anchor at WVTM 13 in Birmingham, Alabama, with a 15-year journalism career.
WVTM 13
WVTM 13 is the Birmingham, Alabama television station where Decker has anchored the evening newscast and which is owned by Hearst.
The details
Decker announced the decision through an Instagram post, citing her wish to be the best mother she can be and to spend more time with her family. She also pointed to unexpected opportunities in her husband Jared Mattsson's growing business as a factor in the choice.
Timeline
July 2026: Decker and Mattsson welcomed daughter Jaci Mae.
November 2, 2026: Decker announced she will not return to the WVTM 13 anchor desk.
Season Trajectory
Decker's decision fits a pattern of working mothers in television news stepping back from demanding evening schedules after childbirth. Her choice also reflects how on-air talent balance career length against family priorities in local broadcast markets.
Birmingham viewers who watched Decker on WVTM 13 will see a new evening anchor. Working parents considering a return to demanding schedules after childbirth can review local child care options before making a similar decision.
The takeaway
Working parents facing a career pause can weigh family needs against career timing and keep open the option of returning to a previous role.
Further reading
Explore more child care resources for working parents in Birmingham.
Source note: This article includes information reported by ComingSoon.
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If you had a young child, would you consider leaving a demanding job to be home more?
