SAG-AFTRA President Sounds Alarm Over Local TV Station Layoffs Across U.S.

Hollywood Reporter

by Katie Kilkenny

February 25, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

SAG-AFTRA President Sean Astin has expressed strong concerns over Nexstar Media Group’s recent layoffs at several local TV stations across the U.S., including KTLA in Los Angeles, WGN in Chicago, and WPIX in New York. These cuts have impacted prominent journalists like KTLA anchors Glen Walker and Lu Parker, as well as meteorologist Mark Kriski. SAG-AFTRA, which represents local TV journalists, claims that eight union members were laid off at WGN alone. Astin criticized Nexstar’s actions, stating they erode the talent and resources essential for providing trusted local news. He urged regulators to prioritize public interest during the pending $6.2 billion merger with Tegna, a deal that FCC Chair Brendan Carr has previously supported. The layoffs have sparked fears about the broader implications of media consolidation, as Nexstar continues to merge with Tegna while renegotiating labor agreements. SAG-AFTRA accuses Nexstar of attempting to weaken severance pay and impose restrictive contract terms during these negotiations. The union is determined to protect its members’ rights and ensure fair treatment in their ongoing discussions with Nexstar stations. Local news plays a critical role in serving communities, and the loss of journalists like those at KTLA, WGN, and WPIX could undermine public trust in media. SAG-AFTRA’s stance highlights the tension between corporate consolidation and the need to safeguard both journalistic integrity and workers’ rights. As regulators evaluate Nexstar’s merger with Tegna, the outcome will have significant implications for the future of local news and its ability to serve audiences effectively. The situation underscores the ongoing challenges faced by unions in protecting their members amid industry consolidation. SAG-AFTRA’s efforts to secure favorable labor agreements demonstrate the importance of advocacy in preserving jobs and

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Originally published on Hollywood Reporter on 2/25/2026