Let’s talk about something we rarely appreciate until we really need it: local news. More specifically, let’s talk about WATE News—Knoxville’s proud ABC affiliate and, let’s be honest, a familiar friend during weather scares, morning coffee, and evening wind-downs. If you’ve lived in East Tennessee for any stretch of time, chances are WATE has been part of your daily routine. And if you’re new here—hey, welcome!—let me tell you why WATE is more than just a TV station.
First Impressions: Why WATE News Caught My Eye
My WATE journey started, like many of my adult decisions, with an unexpected snow day. Picture this: me, in pajamas, coffee in hand, squinting at the TV hoping for school closures. There was WATE, right on time, giving the lowdown before I even took the first sip. That day, I bookmarked their site and started following their socials. Fast-forward a few years, and here I am, writing about them like they’re an old friend.
A True Knoxville Staple
WATE’s been broadcasting since 1953, which makes it the first TV station in East Tennessee. It’s got the legacy, sure—but it doesn’t rest on that. They’ve kept pace with modern tech, pushed out good journalism, and somehow made watching the news feel… cozy? Yes, cozy. Especially when you hear familiar anchors like Lori Tucker or tear up during one of Don Dare’s consumer reports. (Don’t judge me.)
Local News that Actually Feels Local
There’s something special about turning on the TV and seeing a story about a farmer in Sevierville, or a local teacher doing something amazing. WATE’s got that small-town feel with big-city production value. It’s that mix of Tennessee pride and ABC polish that makes it click.
And hey, they get East Tennesseans. Whether it’s Dolly Parton updates (bless her), Vols football fever, or yet another weather alert—WATE covers it like they live here. Because they do.
The Weather Team: Modern-Day Superheroes
If you’re from this region, you already know that East Tennessee weather is chaos wrapped in a mystery burrito. Enter: WATE’s weather team. Ken Weathers (yes, that’s his real name) has practically become a household name in Knoxville. You trust him like you trust your grandma’s recipes—no questions asked.
They’re not just tossing numbers and percentages at the screen. They break it down, use real talk, and update faster than your favorite weather app. One time, I even changed my travel plans based on their “Futurecast”—and yep, it rained like the apocalypse. Saved my shoes and my sanity.
Storms, Closings, and the App That Saved My Tail
Let’s have a moment of appreciation for the WATE 6 On Your Side app. It’s free, clean, and very non-annoying (which is rare in the app world). The push alerts are super useful—especially those snow day closings and “severe thunderstorm warning” buzzes that jolt you out of your seat.
I once avoided a power outage because of a timely alert from WATE. I may or may not have used that extra hour to binge “Ted Lasso” without guilt. #blessed
Social Media Done Right
Some stations get it wrong—too formal, too clickbaity, or just plain boring. But WATE? Their Twitter (or X or whatever we’re calling it now) is a perfect mix of fast updates, human tone, and the occasional meme. Yes, even news anchors have a sense of humor.
Their Facebook community is even stronger. It’s where locals comment, share, and sometimes argue like family. I’ve discovered small businesses, events, and even lost pets through posts on their page.
Investigative Work That Actually Gets Results
This might sound dramatic, but I love a good Don Dare report. If you’ve never seen him in action—he’s basically East Tennessee’s Batman. If a business messes you over, Don’s got your back. It’s called “6 On Your Side” for a reason.
They’ve tackled scams, city bureaucracy, housing issues—you name it. And the best part? People actually get help. WATE doesn’t just report a problem and walk away. They follow through.
Mornings Made Better with Good Day Tennessee
Okay, confession: I used to hate morning news. Too serious. Too much doom. But Good Day Tennessee? It hits different. The anchors actually smile. They laugh. They share funny viral clips. It’s like grabbing breakfast with friends—who also happen to tell you if you need an umbrella.
I once found out about a weekend food truck rally because of a short segment on the show. Instant plans. Instant joy.
Weekend Lineup and Special Segments
Weekends are for winding down, and WATE doesn’t skimp. From community spotlights to feature stories, there’s always something feel-good happening. I’m a big fan of their “Living East Tennessee” series—it’s like a love letter to the region.
Bonus points for covering local art shows, under-the-radar concerts, and yes, the occasional hot chicken festival.
Sports Coverage with Heart
We all know Vols fans are a different breed (guilty). WATE gets that. Their sports team covers UT football like it’s the Super Bowl every week. And they spotlight high school games with just as much enthusiasm.
You can tell they care. It’s not just scores and highlights—it’s community, it’s tradition, it’s home.
Anchors Who Feel Like Family
One of the best parts of WATE? The people. Seriously. Anchors like Lori Tucker, Tearsa Smith, and Bo Williams don’t just read the news—they live here. They show up at local events, volunteer, and support causes that matter.
There’s a realness about them. They stumble over words sometimes. They laugh at awkward stories. It’s not polished to the point of plastic—it’s human.
Room for Growth: No Channel is Perfect
Look, I’m not here to pretend WATE is flawless. Sometimes the graphics glitch. Occasionally, the segments drag. And their website? It’s not bad, but it could use a little less ad chaos.
But honestly, the good outweighs the meh. They listen to feedback, tweak things, and seem to actually care what viewers think. That’s rare.
How WATE News Helped Me Feel More Connected
After moving to Knoxville, I felt pretty out of the loop. WATE was one of the first things that made me feel grounded. Learning about local issues, events, even traffic changes—it made the city feel smaller, friendlier. More mine.
Now, when someone asks, “What’s going on around here?”—I’m that annoying person who’s like, “Well, I saw on WATE…”
Tips for Getting the Most Out of WATE News
- Download the app. Seriously.
- Follow them on social media—especially for weather and community stuff.
- Watch Good Day Tennessee if you need a morning boost.
- Send in tips or stories—they actually read them.
- Use their website for closings, contests, and livestreams.
Final Thoughts: WATE News is Part of My Knoxville Life
Whether it’s storms, sports, or feel-good stories, WATE News has become more than just a channel in my life—it’s a comfort zone. It’s the background noise while I fold laundry, the first place I check when something’s going down, and the local voice that helps make East Tennessee feel like home.
So yeah, I may not be a journalist. But I am a fan. And in today’s messy media world, that still counts for something.
FAQs
1. Is WATE News available for free?
Yes, it’s an ABC affiliate and you can watch it free with an antenna or stream segments online or via their app.
2. Who owns WATE News?
WATE is owned by Nexstar Media Group, one of the largest media companies in the U.S.
3. Does WATE News have live streaming?
Yes! Their website and mobile app offer live newscasts and breaking news coverage.
4. Can I submit a story idea to WATE News?
Absolutely. There’s a contact form on their site where you can pitch news tips or events.
5. Where is WATE News based?
Their studio is in Knoxville, Tennessee—just off Papermill Drive, a stone’s throw from downtown.
