Popular Providence TV weather personality announces that she has been let go…again

A popular local tv personality is out of a job…again.

Kelly Bates is a well-known meteorologist based in Providence, Rhode Island, with a career spanning over two decades in weather forecasting.

Bates began her career in 1996 at WLNE ABC6 in Providence as a weather anchor and reporter, later moving to WJAR NBC10 in 2004, where she became a staple on weekday morning and noon broadcasts until 2021.

In September 2021, Bates announced her abrupt departure from WJAR after the station declined to renew her contract, citing a desire for a new direction in their weather team. This decision sparked widespread backlash from viewers, who flooded social media with support using hashtags like #BringBackKelly and organized petitions that garnered thousands of signatures. Fans praised her for her accurate forecasts, engaging personality, and community involvement, such as her work with local charities and weather education in schools. Bates herself addressed the outpouring in a heartfelt Facebook post, expressing gratitude and hinting at future endeavors.

Bates announced on social media Thursday that WLNE 6 has been bought by her previous employer, and she was let go due to being a “redundancy”.

“Good grief! It happened again!! A number of us ABC6 folks are now looking for work. If a resume crosses your desk from someone at ABC6, do yourself a favor and hire them. They are the finest humans I have worked with. They are resourceful beyond measure and dedicated to excellence. They are magic makers who can make so much happen with so little. It was an honor to work with them. It was a gift and a blessing to be part of the team.”

It is currently unclear who will be filling Bates’ spot.