Why Was Hollie Strano Fired After 22 Years at WKYC? Lawsuit, Plus New Job Update - What We Know

Hollie Strano, a familiar face in Cleveland broadcasting, spent 22 years at WKYC Channel 3 as a trusted meteorologist and on-air personality. In September 2024, the station announced her termination, less than a year after she was charged with operating a vehicle under the influence. The incident occurred in November 2023, and she later pleaded guilty.

Strano addressed her dismissal publicly, stating that WKYC and parent company Tegna chose to end her employment after she shared her recovery journey from alcoholism online. She said the decision highlighted the ongoing stigma surrounding addiction and recovery. Neither WKYC nor Tegna released further comment on the matter.

The dismissal drew public attention, especially after Strano filed a lawsuit against the station. The claim alleges wrongful termination, focusing on two points: her decision to speak openly about her sobriety and her promotion of a wellness product. Legal proceedings are still ongoing.

New Job Update: From Television to Radio

Despite the setback, Strano has since taken on new work in broadcasting. In August 2025, she joined Mix 94.1, a radio station based in Stark County where she now delivers hourly weather updates. Her forecast slots run daily from 6am to 10pm.

The station praised her credentials in a statement, describing her as an Emmy-winning mental health advocate with over two decades of broadcast experience. Strano also shared her excitement on Facebook, writing: 'Let's do this Stark County! So much love for you, Canton!'

In addition to her role at Mix 94.1, she is also producing weather forecasts for radio stations in Georgia and Alabama. She announced the expansion of her work on social media, calling it an honour to deliver forecasts from her hometown in Cleveland to southern audiences.

The 'Abruptly Authentic' Podcast

Alongside her weather updates, Strano hosts a podcast titled Abruptly Authentic with Hollie Strano. The programme is available on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, and Spotify. It combines personal stories, mental health themes, and interviews, often focusing on resilience and recovery.

Her online platform was part of the controversy surrounding her firing, as her lawsuit claims she was penalised for promoting content linked to the podcast. However, her audience has continued to grow, and she regularly posts updates across social media platforms.

Legal and Financial Implications

Strano's lawsuit against WKYC and Tegna brings into focus employment rights and workplace responses to addiction. If successful, the legal action could result in financial compensation or public accountability for the broadcaster.

Employment law experts note that wrongful termination cases involving health conditions or public statements can involve complex legal arguments. Damages in such cases vary widely but could exceed £100,000 (approximately $132,000) depending on outcomes.

So far, the station has not commented on the case or responded to interview requests.

What's Next for Hollie Strano?

Though she is no longer on television, Strano has returned to broadcasting on her own terms. Her current work combines local and regional radio with podcasting and advocacy. She continues to speak openly about addiction and recovery.

She has not ruled out future projects and has continued to share personal updates with her followers.