Mark Kriski Health History Fuels Backlash After KTLA Layoff
Feb. 26, 2026 — Los Angeles Longtime KTLA morning weather anchor Mark Kriski, who has been with the station since 1991, was laid off on February 25, 2026, as part of Nexstar Media Group’s workforce reductions affecting about a dozen on-air staff amid its push for a TEGNA merger.
The layoffs, which also impacted hosts Lu Parker and Glen Walker, have drawn attention to Mark Kriski health issues, including a mild stroke in 2024 and subsequent medical leaves. Public reactions on X have speculated on age discrimination, given Kriski’s age of 69, and potential disability bias related to his post-stroke recovery.
Layoff Details and Industry Context
Nexstar’s cuts at KTLA and WPIX were reported by The Desk on February 25, highlighting union criticism from SAG-AFTRA, which condemned the moves. Los Angeles Daily News noted viewer shock, with social media users calling the decision “disrespectful” and urging lawsuits over perceived ageism and health-related discrimination.
Nexstar lays off workers at KTLA, WPIX amid push for TEGNA merger.
X posts linked the layoff directly to Mark Kriski health, with one user stating, “Prove me wrong: Mark Kriski was fired… because he’s older and had strokes.”
Mark Kriski Health Background
Kriski suffered a mild stroke at home in May 2024, shortly after colleague Sam Rubin’s death, and was hospitalized before recovering in good spirits, according to LA Times.
In April 2025, he underwent a vocal cord procedure addressing post-stroke complications, with an expected short recovery extending to two months due to laryngitis-like symptoms. KTLA announced his return to the Morning News on April 3, 2025, followed by Adweek coverage.
By May 2025, Kriski shared more about his Mark Kriski health recovery and stroke awareness on air, as reported by KTLA and Yahoo.
Public and Union Reaction
Discussions on X, including posts from Variety, amplified SAG-AFTRA’s condemnation of the layoffs. Users tied the decision to Kriski’s Mark Kriski health history, calling for ADA and ageism lawsuits. Earlier KTLA updates in June 2024 described his post-stroke progress as a “fast track to recovery.”
The layoffs reflect broader industry pressures, with Nexstar streamlining operations ahead of the TEGNA deal.
