Four Journalists Depart Phoenix Television Stations

Multiple departures at KPHO and KTVK have left over 10 open positions in the newsroom.

Updated on Oct. 5, 2026 in Openings & Closings

Four Journalists Depart Phoenix Television Stations

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Four veteran journalists have departed the Gray-owned television stations KPHO and KTVK in Phoenix. These exits are coupled with a staffing shortage, as the station currently lists more than 10 job openings within its news department.

Why it matters

The departures highlight an ongoing turnover trend at the local corporate-backed stations. The reduction in staff comes as the stations also faced recent scrutiny for technical errors during live broadcasts.

The news department at KPHO and KTVK currently lists over 10 vacancies. This follows the departure of four established journalists from the Phoenix-based stations.

The players

Simone Cuccurullo

She is a veteran journalist who has departed the Phoenix television stations.

David Caltabiano

He is a veteran journalist who has left his position at the stations.

Whitney Clark

She is a veteran journalist who is no longer with the local station news team.

Yetta Gibson

She is a veteran journalist who has exited her role at KPHO and KTVK.

Charly Edsitty

She is a journalist whose name was recently displayed incorrectly on an on-air graphic.

The details

Simone Cuccurullo, David Caltabiano, Whitney Clark, and Yetta Gibson have all left the stations. Internal confusion also occurred on air, where the station displayed Charly Edsitty's name on a graphic while a different individual appeared at the anchor desk.

October 5, 2026: Date the news of the departures was published.

Market Landscape

These departures follow the ongoing consolidation and cost-cutting measures within the Gray Television local news portfolio. This staffing reduction shifts the station's operational capacity as it competes for viewers in the competitive Phoenix market.

Viewers may notice changes in reporting styles and the presentation of local news as the station fills more than 10 vacancies. These adjustments may also affect the consistency of on-air graphics and anchor assignments during daily broadcasts.

The takeaway

Staffing shortages in local newsrooms often lead to increased technical errors and changes in the quality of daily programming. Viewers should expect a period of transition as the station works to rebuild its editorial team.