In a move that caught even insiders off guard, FOX 26 Houston’s top sports anchor Will Kunkel has been dismissed from the station. The news comes just months after he took the reins as Sports Director.
The shake-up marks a surprising turn in the fast-paced world of broadcast news. And Kunkel is breaking his silence.
“Wednesday was my last day at FOX 26 Houston,” Kunkel announced on X, formerly Twitter. “The station made the decision to cut the sports department—something I never saw coming. It was a shock, to say the least.”
The announcement hit hard, especially among loyal viewers who tuned in nightly for his energy, humor, and deep local sports knowledge.
From Sports Director to Sudden Departure
Though his post implied the entire department was cut, FOX later clarified that sports coverage isn’t going away. Just the role of a dedicated anchor.
“We did not eliminate the sports department. We eliminated the sports anchor position,” said Erica Keane, senior vice president of media relations for Fox Television Stations.
Kunkel joined FOX 26 in September 2023 and quickly became a trusted local voice. He co-anchored nightly newscasts, launched the Kickin’ It with Kunkel podcast, and led coverage on the Astros, Texans, and more. His bold, fast-paced style stood out, and his on-air chemistry with the rest of the team made him a viewer favorite.
Fans React, and the Future Is Wide Open
FOX says the decision is part of a broader shift toward digital-first reporting. But the move still stings for viewers, and Kunkel himself, who weren’t ready for the goodbye.
“Right now, I don’t know exactly what’s next,” he shared. “But I do know this: my faith in Christ hasn’t wavered. He’ll place me where I’m meant to be, when the time is right.
If you’ve got any ideas, connections, or just want to chat—DMs are open.”
Social media is already buzzing with support. Many are calling his exit “a huge loss” for Houston sports journalism. Others are already speculating where he might land next, from another local affiliate to a national gig.
Wherever he goes, one thing is clear: Will Kunkel knows how to make an impact. And his next chapter is just getting started.
