WTAE CHANNEL 4 ANNOUNCES NEW ANCHOR ASSIGNMENTS

Elena LaQuatra named Co-Anchor for Pittsburgh’s Action News 4 This Morning starting March 2

(Pittsburgh, PA. February 18, 2026) – WTAE Channel 4 announced today that Elena LaQuatra has been promoted to co-anchor of Pittsburgh’s Action News 4 This Morning, weekdays from 4:30 – 7:00 a.m. She joins Janelle Hall and morning meteorologist Ashley Dougherty covering late breaking news, weather and stories that impact morning viewers.

“Pittsburghers count on us to help them start their day informed and prepared, and Elena takes that responsibility to heart. Since 2021 our viewers have depended on Elena’s traffic reports to navigate their mornings. I look forward to seeing her strengthen the connection she has built with our audience,” said WTAE President & General Manager Charles W. Wolfertz III.

The search for a new morning traffic anchor and noon news anchor is already underway. LaQuatra succeeds Michelle Wright, who is retiring at the end of February after 30 years with WTAE Channel 4.

“I was born and raised in Pittsburgh, and this city shaped who I am,” said LaQuatra. “I’m incredibly excited to be joining Janelle on the news desk and to build on the legacy Michelle leaves behind, serving the community that has always been my home.”

“It has been an honor to serve this community, and it means a lot to see someone as talented as Elena take the next step,” Wright said. “She is my colleague and friend, who is the same upbeat person you see on TV. Elena works hard and leads with her boundless energy—she is absolutely ready.”

WTAE Channel 4 also announced Ryan Recker will shift his role to anchor Pittsburgh’s Action News 4 at 7p.m. on Cozi TV and contributing reports in the evening newscasts.

“Ryan is a dynamic addition to our evening team,” said WTAE News Director Baylor Long. “He’s prepared to guide our viewers through everything from urgent breaking news to stories that bring our community together.”

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