WRAL Hired Four Journalists for News Expansion
The Raleigh news station added four new members to its staff to bolster original coverage across North Carolina.
Updated on Sept. 28, 2026 in Jobs — General
WRAL has hired four new journalists to increase the capacity of its news department. The station intends to use the new personnel to expand its original reporting and coverage throughout North Carolina.
Why it matters
The staff expansion reflects a strategic push by the station to increase the depth and reach of its reporting. By adding these journalists, WRAL aims to broaden its news coverage across the region.
The news station increased its news department personnel by 4 new hires. The total impact of this personnel addition on the station's broadcast hours remains unknown.
The players
WRAL
This is a television station based in Raleigh, North Carolina, known for its local news programming and coverage.
Bryant Maddrick
He is a journalist and television anchor who previously worked at KSHB and has been hired to anchor weekend evening newscasts.
Avery Davis
An award-winning journalist recently named the 2025 Virginia AP Best MMJ/One Man Band Reporter.
Justin Lundy
He is an experienced television reporter who has been recognized as a two-time Emmy nominee for his news work.
Lance Wilhelm
He is one of the four journalists recently hired to join the news department.
The details
The new hires are Bryant Maddrick, who will anchor weekend evening newscasts, along with Avery Davis, Lance Wilhelm, and Justin Lundy. The incoming team includes recognized industry talent, such as Justin Lundy, a two-time Emmy-nominated reporter, and Avery Davis, the 2025 Virginia AP Best MMJ/One Man Band Reporter.
Timeline
September 28, 2026: Announcement of the four new hires.
2025: Avery Davis was named the Virginia AP Best Reporter.
2019: Bryant Maddrick began working at KSHB.
Market Landscape
The expansion follows a pattern set by the 2024 Pew Research Center trends in local newsroom staffing, where regional outlets seek to differentiate themselves through increased investment in original, local reporting. This move strengthens the station's competitive position in the North Carolina media market.
Residents across North Carolina can expect to see an increase in original reporting and broader news coverage on the station. This personnel change is intended to provide viewers with more comprehensive news content during their daily viewing.
The takeaway
Staffing expansions in local news are often driven by a strategic need to maintain audience engagement through original content. Viewers should expect to see more localized reporting as these new team members integrate into the station's daily operations.
Further reading
Learn more about local career updates and industry shifts in the Raleigh Jobs — General section.
