Beloved Global News anchor Linda Olsen announces departure

One of Calgary’s most beloved news anchors has announced she’s leaving Global News after 29 years with the company.

Linda Olsen will no longer bring Calgarians their local news between 5 and 6 pm after August 19. 

While there isn’t any indication yet over why she is leaving her position, Olsen shared she’ll miss the job that solidified her as one of the city’s go-to local journalists.

“It has been the honour of a lifetime to tell the stories of my hometown,” said Olsen.

“After almost 30 years at the station, Global has become my second home and the people are like family to me. I am grateful to have been invited into viewers’ homes to deliver the news every day and I thank everyone who has seen me in the city and taken a moment to say hello or sent me a note. I will miss the people, and the work we do, and will continue to be an advocate for the importance of journalism with a local lens.”

She also received praise for her work from the company she spent decades devoting her career to.

“Linda has been a force in Calgary and the face of Global News in the community in which we serve,” said Ward Smith, senior vice president of Global News.

“While being a trustworthy and steady hand in front of the camera, Linda has been a wonderful friend and colleague behind the scenes, and a champion on behalf of those who needed one. We will miss Linda and are so excited for her to remain one of our cherished ambassadors.”