Austin360 blogs > TV Blog > Archives > 2008 > September > 12 > Entry
Michelle Valles in or out as KXAN anchor?
Valles says she walked away from her TV station home of the past five years on Thursday, after a contract renewal was offered that she deemed unacceptable.
“It was tough, but, yes, I walked away,” Valles said in an emotional conversation Friday afternoon. “We were under contract negotiations for a while, but they presented me an offer yesterday afternoon that wasn’t in my best interest. I wouldn’t even consider the deal that was offered.”
Eric Lassberg, KXAN’s general manager, disputes that claim, insisting that contract negotiations with Valles are ongoing. He released the following statement to the American-Statesman:
“Michelle Valles is a valued employee at KXAN Austin News. We are in the process of negotiating a long-term contract with Michelle. It is our policy not to comment on personnel matters.”
Neither Valles nor Lassberg would reveal the specific contract dispute. Asked if the problem was salary or job position, Valles said, “Both.” Lassberg would not comment at all.
KXAN may have offered her a contract with different duties than anchoring the station’s 5, 6 and 10 p.m. weekday newscasts. Valles, a University of Texas graduate, has co-anchored the newscasts with Robert Hadlock since joining the station in 2003.
KXAN news usually finishes behind top-rated KVUE, but KEYE often gives it a run for second place at 10 p.m. The Beijing Olympics in August, however, gave KXAN’s newscasts a boost.
But it has been a tumultuous year for Valles, who was arrested last November for driving while intoxicated. After a long weekend, Valles was back on the air, supported by the station, and made a tearful apology to viewers.
Last month, Valles, who has insisted she was not drunk at the time of her arrest, pled guilty to misdemeanor reckless driving, and the DWI charge was dropped. She was sentenced to two years probation.
Rumors of Valles’ current contract troubles bubbled up in July, but negotiations continued with both sides apparently hoping to work out an agreement. It is unclear if Thursday’s breakup is truly the end of Valles’ tenure at KXAN or if tempers will cool and she’ll be back.
“I’m really hurt right now,” Valles said. “But anything’s possible in time. I just want to be appreciated.”
Photo by Amber Novak FOR AMERICAN-STATESMAN
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By gking407
August 27, 2009 9:07 AM | Link to this
Most attractive female news anchor on TV, hands down.
By Jay Brown
July 8, 2009 6:42 PM | Link to this
Glad to see Michelle Villas has joined the morning news at KEYE. The dummies at KXAN were not too bright to let her go for $$$.....of course Austin TV news executives are not known as the sharpest knives in the drawer.
By MJ
November 5, 2008 7:45 PM | Link to this
We have been trying to find out what happened to Michelle...all of you out there in "keep Austin Wierd land" just blew it....look at the major cities and networks and see their anchors...KXAN had the most beautiful, full of personality, and politically correct mix of newspersonalities going for it...what happened..now it is dull, stagnant just like the other stations...I hope one of the large stations picks her up because the camera loves her and she does a great job, makes the news fun, and interesting and it seemed like a family on KXAN...now it seems like they are all trying to hard....Before anyone throws rocks, they ought to check and see if they are perfect and haven't make any mistakes in their life...or if their kids are perfect...crow is hard to swallow!!!
By Rick
October 30, 2008 9:08 PM | Link to this
When KXAN let Michelle go, they made a HUGE mistake. So what do they do, the get Leslie (what's her last name) to try and replace her. KXAN you just lost another household.
By Barb L
October 9, 2008 6:36 AM | Link to this
I think it best she part company with KXAN. Her demeanor was not professional; the giggling, flirting and having to have the last word at the end of a broadcast was the actions of an immature person. Her appearance as of late was untidy - not a good match for Robert Hadlock.
By Larry Wesson
October 4, 2008 10:55 PM | Link to this
She made a mistake, we all make mistakes! Michelle is the only reason I watch KXAN news. Maybe not anymore.
By TONY P
October 2, 2008 4:21 AM | Link to this
stupid KXAN..... Yet another reason why KVUE is AUSTIN'S NEWS STATION. Idiots you'll just lost alot of viewers.
By wdo
September 16, 2008 11:33 AM | Link to this
Michelle is a GREAT NEWS ANCHOR Let her go and here I go to Watch OLGA.
By Jaime
September 15, 2008 3:56 PM | Link to this
Time for Michelle to go. She is no longer one my family likes to see on TV. She makes mistakes reading the screen and after her DWI fiasco, no way I'm letting my kids watch her.
By Ellis
September 15, 2008 1:26 PM | Link to this
"Kim" is obviously a friend. No one in their right mind would ever chose either of them for an evening anchor position. 'Course, somebody there chose Valles, so who knows.
By si se puede
September 15, 2008 8:19 AM | Link to this
Ok here we go again...Leave her alone! She's obviously has moved on so please do the lady no more harm. Imagine if it were you.
Why don't we just give her a scarlet letter to walk around town now. That way we know she's a good for nothing? You people are pathetic you too Ann. Get a life and go get on a treadmill and burn off your anger.
By Nick
September 14, 2008 11:30 PM | Link to this
Hey "si se puede" -- real smooth. Call anyone who criticizes Valles a "racist." Oh, you're quite the intellect, aren't you.
And "Photographer" -- I love how you have pretty much punted the ball and all but admitted that the local TV news product in this town sucks. Nobody is insulting her. People are just pointing out how awful she is at what she does. And by extension, they're commenting on the poor state of affairs of news coverage in this town.
By ann
September 14, 2008 3:53 PM | Link to this
M. Valles - let her go. She is full of herself, overriding R. Hadlock (anchor winner) at every chance allowed to make comment. With her, you've lost viewers.
By si se puede
September 14, 2008 3:45 PM | Link to this
The fact that people are still talking about this 3 days later says something. Wow. This is for Valles: Mija I'd be more afraid if NO ONE was talking about you. People love to see talk about you good or bad and half these people are racist anyway!
You are too good for those clowns. Walk on mija and make us east siders proud!!! Mr. Ramon Diaz
By TVGuy
September 14, 2008 2:50 PM | Link to this
If Michelle stays with KXAN, she will no longer be doing the 10 p.m.
The station needs a female anchor who has a conversational delivery, not the stiff announcer-type delivery that Michelle uses.
The station's Sally Hernandez has a natural, conversational-style delivery, the kind the station needs for its main female anchor. At this point, though, Sally doesn't have the confidence and the ad-lib ability essential for the job. Sally needs to work hard on improving her ad-lib skills and confidence, because she's just what KXAN needs for its main female anchor.
And David Scott needs to be the top male anchor.
By Hasta Manana
September 14, 2008 10:46 AM | Link to this
Enough. Why do people love to talk about Michelle Valles good or bad?
I mean let's talk about what's really going on over there at KXAN with those fearless managers. Hmmmm... It seems like negotiating is not their thing...suddenlink, CW?? Michelle is the least of their problems right now.
By Photographer
September 14, 2008 10:38 AM | Link to this
I'm sorry but the days of Edward R. Murrow journalists in LOCAL NEWS are gone. If that's what you folks really want watch PBS, BBC, or listen to NPR. To insult MIchelle for what local news has become is so unfair. SHe is just doing a professional job while bringing us a little sunshine with that smile and staying true to herself. Yes I know her.
She is a great reporter too so enough with these comments. Let's move on people there are deaths because of this hurricane, let's get our priorities straight! And if you don't like her why do you know so much about her anyway? Let's move on people.
By Maria
September 14, 2008 9:10 AM | Link to this
The only reason I watched KXAN was because of Michelle. Shame on KXAN if they let her go because of her arrest. She proved that she's human like the rest of us and she was humbled by her experience. Michelle deserves something better! KXAN just lost one loyal viewer.
By KIM
September 14, 2008 1:31 AM | Link to this
Beauty can not replace talent. Michelle is pretty, but she is not good.
KXAN has others who do a good job. I enjoy watching Sally in the morning. Shannon does a good job (I think there are two women named Shannon, I am talking about the black woman. I think she is new). It would be nice to see pretty, professional and talented women reporting the news.
It is time for a change and Michelle's timing could not be better.
By HA
September 13, 2008 11:05 PM | Link to this
Good riddance. I can't believe how many people a.) think she's beautiful and b.) think that's a qualification for a journalist reporting the news. The woman couldn't get through the news without slurring her words.
"KXAN news usually finishes behind top-rated KVUE" maybe she's why.
By td
September 13, 2008 7:52 PM | Link to this
Michelle is great, don't hate her because she is the most beautiful anchor in the history of tv. She is a great person.
Hasta manana Michelle,
TD in CP.
By Bob
September 13, 2008 7:06 PM | Link to this
What would KXAN be without Michelle? Just another bland newscast with no reason to watch! She has personality which doesn't always show through with other anchors. Love her or hate her, people watch. Reason enough to keep her.
By Bob
September 13, 2008 6:55 PM | Link to this
What would KXAN be without Michelle? Just another bland newscast with with no reason to watch. Love her or hate her, people are watching. Reason enough to keep her. She has personality, something that doesn't come through with other anchors.
By GT Viewer
September 13, 2008 6:14 PM | Link to this
As a Hispanic viewer I believe she was hired to appeal to Hispanic voters. Well, she does not appeal to me. She messes up too much and one wonders if her nationality is the only reason she has moved up in her career. There are too many other talented anchors out there and I for one wish the TV stations would not try to be so politically correct and hire only the best.
One can see the subtle anguish in Robert Hadlock's eyes.
By Marilyn
September 13, 2008 5:12 PM | Link to this
I really hope Michelle V is back because I'd miss her humor as well as reporting the news. I don't normally like humor during the newscasts, but it works with her and she makes me laugh. And with all the bad things happening she is much needed. She shares her culture with her wit and knowledge and seems to have sincere feelings for us listeners. She's genuine and upfront and has feelings and I trust what she says. Please, please, see her good and make this work. We need her!!!
By news watcher
September 13, 2008 4:57 PM | Link to this
Keep Michelle, KXAN! Pay her what an anchorwoman deserves. She is bubbly and does the news with laughter when called for, & serious when necessary. She brings a great newscast with her professionalism, personality and likeability. She is an asset along with Robert. Her saying Hasta la Vista at the end of a show is so trivial! She, Robert, Jim & Roger seem to have good rapport; she's a likeable person. News shouldn't always have to be serious, a little fun makes it better to watch and shows a human side. You go, girl.!
By sim sum
September 13, 2008 4:03 PM | Link to this
Awesome! Now may Michelle have a long and distinguished career in the "adult entertainment arts". This is a wake up call dear hot latina hotstuff lol.
By Laura
September 13, 2008 1:34 PM | Link to this
Michelle's commitment to community news goes further than the screen. She has continuously stepped up for non-profits in Austin, the American Heart Association and other community outreach. Isn't that what being a figure in the news is all about - connecting to what the hell is going on in your city? She is interested in the specific narratives of this town and has demonstrated that personally and professionally. Hasta manana is just a small way she celebrates her culture which isn't necessarily permitted in television media, period. She attracts an audience and delivers the news formidably and with a human, un-robotic voice like some other broadcasters. Give her what she wants KXAN!
By JD
September 13, 2008 1:27 PM | Link to this
Agree with Al. Cooke or Wolfson both great options. Both have the experience. Both are professionals. Get with the program KXAN. Would you question your stats with a monkey at the desk? Then why not with Valles? Same IMO.
By Hey
September 13, 2008 12:59 PM | Link to this
she is hot! that should be enough reason to keep her
By Ralph Banuelos
September 13, 2008 12:58 PM | Link to this
Really? I'm still upset with management over there, after their weak negotiating skills couldn't get us viewers our daily dose of Michelle when Suddenlink and KXAN couldn't come to an agreement. How stupid was that!!! Michelle--they sound cheap don't listen to these comments half of them are probably from angry housewives, or bald men who wanted to be on tv but never could afford plugs.
By pablo
September 13, 2008 12:29 PM | Link to this
Harmony at home! That is what we'll have in our household if Michelle does not come back. My wife constantly complains she misses hearing 50% of the evening and late KXAN newscasts because of the constant "what and idiot" rants throughout...and yep, that would be me and my rant every time she FAILS her lines. I really like Roberts portion of the news as well as the weather and sports segments on this channel so that's why I continue to tune in. With Michelle gone, peace and harmony at 6:00 and 10:00... and that's a good thing!
By Look at the real issue
September 13, 2008 12:23 PM | Link to this
I agree with those who say her talents lie elsewhere and I don't think anyone is or should be saying she is dirt. She is just not at the level of those capable of going to larger markets. But Judge Earle did her a disservice by not insisting she have counseling with her two year probation. This article shows Michelle's immature, inappropriate Diva behavior considering the the level of talent she currently has achieved.
She Is hurt and just wants to be appreciated? Walking off the job and then airing your insecure feelings to the media is being a professional news anchor? Looking for sympathy and support to try to manipulate and power play, thinking your "fans" will flood the station to try to force KXAN to give you the money you want? Ugh. KXAN would be wise to say, Thanks but no thanks. They need team players to achieve the consistent success that KVUE receives in any rating, A-list or Nielsen.
It is doubtful KVUE would want someone who has clearly shown she is not a team player and sees herself as a bigger "star". As well as maybe putting them in the same position down the road. History has a way of repeating itself.
By bill
September 13, 2008 11:28 AM | Link to this
Please do not keep Ms. Valles as anchor. You can do better with other journalists. She has never provided the image KXAN deserves.
By King
September 13, 2008 8:52 AM | Link to this
You guys that are bashing Michelle are a bunch of idiots. And yes, I meant to say "that" because all of you are not worthy to be referred to as "who". What gives you the right to say that she is nothing but dirt. You think you guys are better than her? That is the biggest BS I heard in a while. So she has some flaws to her character. She doesn’t deny it, and neither do I. But BIG “EFFEN” DEAL!!! It’s not like she killed anybody, and it doesn’t mean she’s a horrible TV journalist/anchor. I bet most of you have even bigger flaws that none of you are willing to admit. If you think she’s a horrible anchor, why don’t any of you go to the KXAN studio and give the news in front of a camera and hundreds of thousands of people. Then will see really horrible. You guys make me want to throw up. Immature *******!
By anguis in herba
September 13, 2008 7:46 AM | Link to this
You sure these aren't the same inDoits that blew up 1300 the Zone?... :b
By Steve
September 13, 2008 7:38 AM | Link to this
KXAN is one of only nine (9) stations in the country that doesn't carry Poker After Dark. On that show they play TEXAS hold 'em. Don't expect too many brilliant decisions coming out of this station.
By Keith
September 13, 2008 7:06 AM | Link to this
Good! She was an embarrassment to TV news.
By Al
September 13, 2008 3:31 AM | Link to this
Michelle should not have been hired after her initial try-out. She can't even read the tele-prompter half the time. It would never do for her and Kirk Watson to try and share a camera. Once she is gone for good and a decent female anchor is hired, KXAN's ratings will go up 10 points the first month. Instead of her silly little "Hasta Manana", I'd love to hear her say a final "Hasta la Vista!" Leslie Cook would be fantastic is she is available. Also Shannon Wolfson.They have plenty other Hispanics.
By Gary
September 13, 2008 2:09 AM | Link to this
Another scoop for Diane.
By D. Davenport
September 13, 2008 12:11 AM | Link to this
Valles is the best thing that station has going for it. She is smart, witty and knows her stuff.
The station would be nuts to let her go. It would not be the first time a news organization has its collective head up its collective butt.
She will go network if they blink.
They are village idiots.
By Laughing
September 12, 2008 11:14 PM | Link to this
See ya sister! Terrible on-air, always flubbing lines, and pukey banter with Jim Spencer. What kind of bizarre affair was she having with him anyways?
Robert Hadlock deserves better.
By ANN
September 12, 2008 10:38 PM | Link to this
Michelle is the one why I watch KXAN. SHe makes me smile each day with her bright smile. Please pay her what she deserves and don't let her go.
By Finally
September 12, 2008 10:35 PM | Link to this
Michelle Villas is nothing more than EYE CANDY and filling a minority hiring quota. She is easy one of the least professional of all the Austin NEWS anchors. She has improved a little over time but not much.
She has no idea how to act on the air, trying to make jokes that no one on the set finds funny. She continually screws up reading the teleprompter, how damn hard can it be.
By james
September 12, 2008 10:32 PM | Link to this
I have to admit I never cared for her. She doesn't didn't have a very good on air presence. I never understood why they hired her. There are other women on the station who would make better anchors. Good riddance.
By Erma
September 12, 2008 10:32 PM | Link to this
No..Please don't let Michelle leave. Please offer her what she deserves. Keep her at KXAN. She is an excellent anchor. Michelle this is for you "DON'T PAY ATTENTION TO ALL THOSE NEGATIVE COMMENTS". I know in my heart that you are the best anchor I ever seen and the smartest. So keep up the good work! GOD BLESS YOU.
By tony
September 12, 2008 10:07 PM | Link to this
The only reason I watch kxan is Michelle Valles! Sigh.....I'll switch to see Ronny O. if Michelle leaves.
By WHAT??
September 12, 2008 10:01 PM | Link to this
Elizabeth Danheim? You must be kidding me, right? She's BARELY ok as a crappy reporter. That's the reason KEYE let her go.
By slug
September 12, 2008 9:58 PM | Link to this
Valles needs to get a grip. She wants to be "appreciated"... KXAN surely did appreciate her for NOT firing her when she got the DWI. What a prima donna!
By Nick
September 12, 2008 9:56 PM | Link to this
Let's review all the comments so far in support of why Valles should remain: she's hot. She's got nice curves. Nice personality. A heart of gold. She's hispanic. She's a woman. All of which has absolutely ZERO to do with being a journalist. When are you people gonna learn? Local TV news is a shallow, superficial business where little actual news of value is ever reported. Bring on the next empty-headed hottie.
By David
September 12, 2008 9:52 PM | Link to this
Michelle is the reason why I watch KXAN her personality & whit makes this station's news team top notch!
By Rabbit Toy
September 12, 2008 9:03 PM | Link to this
Three Words...Worst Anchor Ever! I witnessed more talented anchors at Texas State on the college news channel...and they sucked! I was thrilled to NOT see Ms. Valles at the desk tonight. Thanks KXAN.
By Not a kxan viewer
September 12, 2008 7:37 PM | Link to this
I quit watching kxan and the related cw network when they started carrying the 700 club far right christian news network. I will watch fox made up fair and balanced news network or listen to rush the hillbilly heroin addict if i want to listen to right wing propaganda. Those people wouldn't know the truth if you put lipstick on it!!!
By The Head
September 12, 2008 7:32 PM | Link to this
Give Chrystal Cotti a prime time news spot...
By Not A KXAN Viewer
September 12, 2008 7:30 PM | Link to this
I quit watching KXAN when they started carrying the 700 club as a news channel. If I want to watch right wing propoganda I'll watch the Fox made up news network or listen to Rush "the hillbilly heroin" addict. Fair and balanced, yeah right???
By Nichole
September 12, 2008 6:50 PM | Link to this
I hope that they will accomodate what she is asking for. I like her. I hope that they are not holding what happened to her in her personal time against her. We're all human. If she doesn't return I will now watch another news station. Hope KXAN is taking note!
By richard head
September 12, 2008 6:05 PM | Link to this
I hate to see her go, but I love to watch her leave.
By m
September 12, 2008 5:32 PM | Link to this
I hope the fact that she is not on tonight is temporary...i just turned the channel to KVUE.
By Piedras
September 12, 2008 5:20 PM | Link to this
Hasta manana Michelle. Glad to see her go. I feel like I'm watching a telenovela when she is on with all that makeup, the cheesy outfits, and the silly banter. Please get a more professional anchor!
By ***
September 12, 2008 5:15 PM | Link to this
Don't let her go KXAN! We like her!
By Susan
September 12, 2008 5:14 PM | Link to this
KXAN can do better. She was always messing up on air.
By Rambone
September 12, 2008 4:48 PM | Link to this
What I don't (and will never understand) is how KVUE is number 1??? That Tyler Sissyswarda guy is such a pretentious arrogant bozo. And the co-anchor lady who recently left was equally as annoying. Who can stand to watch KVUE?!?!?!
By Craziness
September 12, 2008 4:46 PM | Link to this
One name comes to mind for a replace: Elizabeth Danheim. She's available.
By newsie
September 12, 2008 4:44 PM | Link to this
Yup those managers are stupid.
Ask anyone who has ever worked with those tools especially News Director Michael Fabac. He's is easily intimidated and fearful. Watch your backs everyone we got a newcomer from Arkansas shaking up things for the worst. Good luck Michelle. Look forward.
By Jan
September 12, 2008 4:41 PM | Link to this
I stopped watching KXAN after she arrived--which I hated because I like Robert and Jim, but I think Michelle is not very professional and way too silly!! Also was disappointed in her DUI and thought she should have been released at that time. So, I hope she is gone so I can go back to KXAN again!!!
By Rogelio
September 12, 2008 4:41 PM | Link to this
Worst. Anchor. Ever. Can't ad lib her way out of a wet paper bag. She brings nothing to the desk but a pretty face. Of course, that's all you need these days to be a "journalist" these days.
Gone?? Good.
By former viewer
September 12, 2008 4:37 PM | Link to this
Dennis, you're right on - BTW - who cares what a newscaster looks like.
Let her go - Robert dosen't need a partner, besides, I am tired of her giving every word she says a spanish sound.
SEE YA!!!
By GJM
September 12, 2008 4:34 PM | Link to this
Michelle needs to go. I don't understand why she is still anchoring the news. She's a bad example and an embarrassment to KXAN. DWI's are no joke!!!! They are probably trying to make her leave by not giving her a good contract deal. She should leave and not look back. I usually don't watch that news channel but when I seldom do I think about what she did when I see her. I don't care what race she is but wrong is wrong and she needs to suffer the consequences.
By news hound
September 12, 2008 4:20 PM | Link to this
Michelle Valles GONE from KXAN. NO WAY.Are these guys at KXAN stupid or what!?
By wtf??!
September 12, 2008 4:14 PM | Link to this
What a shocker! I just say Michelle at an event this morning shining bright?
It's not about hispanic, white, black or blue Michelle is a talented person with a heart of gold. I never felt she was in the right position anyway at KXAN. She needs her own show!
They never promoted any of their anchors and I ALWAYS see her out. It seems like she has encountered some trying times but she will see this will probably be the BEST thing for her. Don't lose sight Michelle. The haters will always be there, surround yourself with love and as long as you do the right thing in life, you will be rewarded--Former KXANER.
By Felix
September 12, 2008 4:10 PM | Link to this
KXAN say it isn't so! If you lose Michelle Valles what a lose it would be. Come on guys make a fair offer and get her back on-air. It seems to me from reading Diane's article that KXAN is not realizing the talent they in Michelle, she is the main reason I watch KXAN to begin with and now you might let her go? I have been a life long viewer but now you will lose me as well viewer-wise if Michelle is gone. Do something Eric to bring her back sir. I have always apprecitated her wit and strong work ethic and she deserves better!
By Felix
September 12, 2008 3:57 PM | Link to this
KXAN do not make a major mistake and allow Michelle Valles as your main anchor to slip away. It seems to me from reading Diane's article that Michelle is doing everything and has done everything to work something resonable out with KXAN but they seem not to appreciate true on-air talent ALREADY on their team. Come on guys make something work out that is fair and sincere, personally if she isn't back then I'm gone as well viewer-wise! I am a life long viewer and I have always respected your diversity and Michelle's wit and above all her work ethic which reflexs each night. In all reality ever since Michelle has joined the KXAN news team I have watched your news even more but that will change if you let her go. Jim is good and all but Michelle truely adds the finishing touch and you mean to tell me your going let her go?...Bad call KXAN.
By *
September 12, 2008 3:53 PM | Link to this
damn. she's sooooo hot. wowsers. i would really hate to see her go.
By Dennis
September 12, 2008 3:52 PM | Link to this
There is one reason I do not watch KXAN... Michelle Valles.
She went to the Geri Halliwell School for Camera Hogs. No matter what's going on or who is talking, she's always watching to make sure she's on camera.
I hope she's gone.
By Claudia
September 12, 2008 3:51 PM | Link to this
I just don't care for her voice; it seems strained to me. Personally I think the best KXAN anchor was Tonya Kerr (don't know if I spelled that right) who used to be on in the mornings. I don't know what happened to her; she just left abruptly, but she really had sparkle and a great delivery.
By ben
September 12, 2008 3:50 PM | Link to this
OH NO! She is the most beautiful woman on broadcast TV. On the rare occaisions she does fund raisers or stand up, you are teased by her awesome curves. It would be a shame if they let her go, she is the only reason I watch local TV news at all.
I still miss Eileen Rodriguez and Paige Gresset.
By Jmonk
September 12, 2008 3:49 PM | Link to this
She can be replaced. There are plenty of up-and-comers in the news business who would love to have her job. I predict we have seen the last of Ms. Valles. Good Luck to her as she departs and to KXAN on their new anchor hunt.
By John
September 12, 2008 3:45 PM | Link to this
Noooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo
By Scott
September 12, 2008 3:44 PM | Link to this
It would be a huge mistake letting Michelle leave! She’s the only reason I watch KXAN! I agree with everything Cole wrote. If I want to hear the news with no human inflection, I’ll just read it. I want someone with personality!! Not to mention all of the work she does in the community. She’s an Austin treasure!
By Terry / Austin, Tx
September 12, 2008 3:40 PM | Link to this
Michelle and Jim Spencer both need to go
By Chad
September 12, 2008 3:40 PM | Link to this
Michelle is the only reason I turn the tv on at night. If she leaves I will be forced to watch a different news channel!
By rosa
September 12, 2008 3:36 PM | Link to this
I agree, Michelle needs to go. I stopped watching KXAN because of her. She is so annoying to watch I just could not continue to do so. I understand why KVUE is No. 1, because that's where I went. The only time I watch KXAN is on the weekends when I know she is not on.
By Hot Rod
September 12, 2008 3:33 PM | Link to this
Michelle Valles and Robert Hadlock are the only reason that KXAN is still around. If they let Michelle go you best believe that KVUE will pick her up and put her on the air. KVUE needs more Hispanic viewers and this would help.
By Newsie Nutt
September 12, 2008 3:32 PM | Link to this
Bring up Shannon W. before someone else does. Youthful, professional, and on-air presence is top-notch.
By Hot Rod
September 12, 2008 3:30 PM | Link to this
If Michelle Valles leave KXAN then rest assured that KVUE will scoop her up and fast. KVUE needs her to establish/maintain their dominance. Also KVUE would additionally attract more Hispanic viewers whom they truly would like to capture. WAKE UP KXAN - don't let her go - she's too valuable!
By Michael
September 12, 2008 3:30 PM | Link to this
KXAN is making a BIG error by not paying Michelle Valles what she is due in both compensation and position. It is pretty obvious who the bad guy is in this one. Shame on you KXAN. You have an experienced, hispanic, female, well-received news anchor and you manage to somehow drop the ball. What a big OOPS! that is.
By Erin
September 12, 2008 3:29 PM | Link to this
She's an embarrassment to that station. She always looks like she's going out to a club after the news. Hire Elizabeth Dannheim--after KEYE was dumb enough to let her go, she'd be a great addition.
By Fred
September 12, 2008 3:28 PM | Link to this
Hmmm, I noticed former KXAN anchor Leslie Cook's hubby just took a position back in Austin after being in DC for 5 years and dragging her with him. I sure hope her contract is up. The ratings would go through the roof if she came back.
Michelle is a top notch female hispanic anchor who's easy on the eyes. Shouldn't be too difficult to find work elsewhere in Texas.
By VADR
September 12, 2008 3:27 PM | Link to this
VADR - Viewers Against Drunk Reporters.....Don't let the door hit you on your way out. Most folks that get caught driving drunk, don't get off so easy. Different justice for different folks.
By I
September 12, 2008 3:21 PM | Link to this
Get rid of her! Go back to El Paso!! How do you expect to be appreciated when you break the law and you don't even speak well on TV? You are always messing up! Geez! Give Robert a better partner!!
By Cole
September 12, 2008 3:19 PM | Link to this
I think it would be a huge mistake on the part of KXAN to let Michelle walk out the door. She and Jim Spencer are the main reasons I tune in to KXAN each night. It is so nice to watch an anchor that shows some personality each night and isn't a complete robot like her counterparts on FOX7, KEYE, and KVUE. Wake up, KXAN! You've got a good thing going with your current on-air team!
I really hope we haven't heard our last "hasta mañana" from Michelle... :-(