Maria Genero is a well-known figure in Buffalo, New York, particularly for her role as a weather anchor on Channel 2’s WGRZ-TV. With a broadcasting career spanning almost 40 years, she began in radio in 1984 and transitioned to television in 1987. Maria has showcased her talent not only in Western New York but also in major TV markets such as New York City, Miami, and Los Angeles.
Born in Niagara Falls, she returned to her native region in 2001 and joined Channel 2 as a part-timer in 2006, gradually taking on various roles, including co-hosting the station’s 4 p.m. program, “Most Buffalo,” alongside Kate Welshofer. Known for her distinctive voice, upbeat personality, and happy talk skills, Maria has left an enduring mark on the local news industry, earning her recent induction into the Buffalo Broadcasters Hall of Fame in 2023.
In a recent interview, Maria Genero confirmed that she’ll be leaving Channel 2, the Buffalo-based television station where she has been the weather anchor for 17 years. Her departure is set for December 21, coincidentally the first day of winter. Maria expressed gratitude for her time at the station, stating that her decision to leave is rooted in a desire to explore opportunities beyond being a weathercaster.
Despite Channel 2’s offer for her to stay in the weather department, Maria declined. She mentioned that the increasing redundancy of weather forecasts, coupled with her wish to pursue different avenues, led to her departure. This news follows the recent departures of other popular personalities from the NBC affiliate, hinting at potential changes in programming for shows like “Most Buffalo,” where Maria had been serving as a co-host alongside Kate Welshofer.
Who is Maria Genero?
Maria Genero is a beloved personality in Buffalo and beyond, known for her extensive career in broadcasting. Here are some key highlights of her journey:
Early Career
Maria began her broadcasting career in 1984, starting in radio. Her passion for communication and storytelling soon led her to make the transition to television in 1987, where she continued to shine.
Return to Western New York
Despite working in major TV markets like New York City, Miami, and Los Angeles, Maria Genero returned to her roots in Western New York in 2001. Her love for the region and its people brought her back home.
Channel 2 and “Most Buffalo”
Maria joined Channel 2 in 2006 as a part-timer and gradually worked her way up. She became a familiar face to viewers and even co-hosted the station’s 4 p.m. program, “Most Buffalo,” alongside Kate Welshofer.
Buffalo Broadcasters Hall of Fame
Maria Genero’s contributions to the local news industry were recently recognized with her induction into the Buffalo Broadcasters Hall of Fame in 2023. This prestigious honor speaks to her lasting impact on the field.
Why is Maria Genero Leaving Channel 2?
Maria Genero’s decision to leave Channel 2 after 17 years is not one made lightly. In her own words, she shared the reasons behind this significant career move:
Seeking New Opportunities
Maria expressed a strong desire to explore avenues beyond being a weathercaster. After dedicating many years to delivering weather forecasts, she felt it was time for a change and to pursue new challenges.
Redundancy in Weather Forecasts
One factor that contributed to her decision was the increasing redundancy of weather forecasts. With advancements in technology and multiple sources for weather information, Maria recognized that her role as a weather anchor had evolved, and she wanted to pivot in a different direction.
Declining Channel 2’s Offer
Despite Channel 2’s offer for her to stay in the weather department, Maria declined. Her decision aligns with her expressed need for a change, indicating a shift in her career interests and a pursuit of opportunities outside the television industry.
In conclusion, Maria Genero’s departure from Channel 2 marks a significant moment in her illustrious broadcasting career. Her decision to explore new horizons and seek fresh challenges is a testament to her determination and passion for her craft. Buffalo and her many fans will undoubtedly continue to support her in whatever endeavors she chooses to pursue.
Is Maria Genero Leaving Channel 2? – FAQs
1. Is Maria Genero leaving Channel 2?
Yes, Maria Genero is indeed leaving Channel 2, where she has been the weather anchor for 17 years.
2. When is Maria Genero leaving Channel 2?
Maria Genero will be stepping away on December 21, coincidentally the first day of winter.
3. Why is Maria Genero leaving Channel 2?
Maria is leaving to explore opportunities beyond being a weathercaster and to move away from the weather desk due to the increasing redundancy of weather forecasts.
4. Did Channel 2 offer Maria Genero a contract to stay in the weather department?
Yes, Channel 2 offered Maria a contract to stay in the weather department, but she declined.
5. When did Maria Genero return to Western New York?
Maria Genero returned to Western New York in 2001 after working in major TV markets like New York City, Miami, and Los Angeles.
