Longtime and beloved morning St. Louis news anchor Rene Knott says he resigned last week at KSDK’s request after he became the focus of a human resources investigation.
Knott told St. Louis Magazine he was asked on Oct. 9 to join a human resources representative on a FaceTime call. There, Knott said he was asked about comments he allegedly made about violence and guns, including one about getting his AK-47 assault rifle. Knott insisted he made no such comments about guns in any context “other than a journalistic one,” adding that does not even own a gun.
Knott said he was also asked whether he had made comments about “wanting to kick coworkers’ asses,” which he described as normal joking around that, to his knowledge, no one had ever complained about.
A week later, Knott was summoned to another call, one that lasted just a few minutes. Knott said TV station managers told him the NBC affiliate’s corporate owner, Tegna, has a zero-tolerance policy and was asked to resign.
“Well, if no one believes me after all these years, why would I want to work in that environment? Why would I work with people who are saying these things about me now?” Knott said, recalling his feelings after being told to resign.
Knott then quit the job he had held for the past 21 years.
According to the magazine, several of Knott’s former colleagues recently expressed concern, some saying that he seemed “increasingly agitated.” Although Knott said he was not under any stress or agitation, some of his colleagues resisted the idea of him returning to the newsroom.
KSDK did not respond to repeated requests for comment, the magazine reported.
Knott joined KSDK in 2004 and became one of St. Louis’ most recognized morning news anchors, known for his warmth and humor on “Today in St. Louis.”
Though disappointed by how things ended, Knott said his years at KSDK left an enduring impact on his life and family.
“Without them, I wouldn’t have the home I live in. I wouldn’t have two college graduates as children,” he said. “Did it end the way I wanted? No. You would think, you put in that much time, that much energy, you get the gold pocket watch at the end, right?”
So DONE with KSDK! A huge Mentor, Renowed, Loved and Respected man as Rene Knott, and they dismissed him for “office talk?!”…. Sounds like a set up!
I couldn’t count the times I told my co-workers that I was going to kick their asses. Not one person, in 30 years, took offense to it. And their were plenty who wanted me gone, for different reasons. I understand that the work environment has changed, but come on people!
I AGREE!
They wanted you out ,we’ve seen this before.
I said the same thing, they probably have someone else lined up for his job. I wish him Much Success, whatever he chooses to do next.
Well, when you are put in the position of resigning or getting fired, the decent thing to do is to resign. I was in the same position when I was told, after 55 years on a job that I had started when I was 16 years old, and the company wanted to part ways with me. I was also given the option to “retire” or be fired . Mind you, this was very large and well-known US company that had been bought out by an Israeli company. Luckily for me, I was ready to leave anyway. I had worked during the covid era, so I was ready for a change. When God closes the door, he opens a window! I am happier now than I’ve ever been.
I agree that they they just wanted to get rid of some other people and they have to have an excuse to do it. You know they got rid of Anthony slaughter who did the weather which I thought he was fantastic and rainy Knotts one of the best coanchors we’ve ever had with the exception of Karen boss so I think they just wanna get newer younger people in there and this is their way of getting rid of some of the older ones that are there I don’t watch KSK news anymore. I watch Newsmax instead.yes they have to have an excuse
He was my favorite St Louis news person. Done with channel 5 all together
Exactly!!! This has gone too far
Agree.
I agree…a setup! Done with KSDK!
It WAS a set-up!-Just like when Malcolm Briggs was fired for no reason to make room for the incoming Rene Knott at that TIME!!!-😐
🤔😉
Was that like Karma hmmmm
Absolutely sounds like he was the victim of a set-up. I’m done with KSDK
True,way of the world
Typical workplace setup. A “GET OUT!”, situation. They wanted him out. When a lie was refuted with facts, they conjured another one…and another one. When you’re working in the tall grass and you’re outnumbered by snakes, it’s time to go! I only watch KDSK for inclement weather alerts.
I don’t even watch it for weather alerts anymore.
I hope René has a good lawyer.
I totally agree. My son saw them for their true selves over a year ago. Firing Anthony Slaughter sealed it. I’m done.
I agree. This is a real pattern for KSDK. Done with them.
Totally agree! After they fired Anthony I stopped watching 5 in the morning.
I loved Anthony Slaughter, what a good dude. Fired because he wouldn’t say Impact Weather enough to please some moron who loved a catch phrase.
Well well ..I hope your former snake acting former co-workers that are in the front need to know that it will be done to them as well.
What goes around comes around it’s funny how some of the warm caring people end up being not so warm see Ellen lol and these news organizations have no integrity whatsoever I don’t watch any of them !!!
Sorry to see Rene gone. Guess I’m on to channel 4 full time.
I believe the removal of talent which costs money started with removing A team reporters in so specific order: Cindy Pressler, Heidi Klum, Jennifer Blome, Monica Adam’s, Anthony Slaughter, Allie Corey, Rene Knott and a couple others that don’t come to mind. Next I see Kelly Jackson and Mike Bush gone. KSDK now appears stacked with B team reporters and difficult to watch most of them. I wonder if Mgmt is getting bonus money for ruining a good team of reporters. Good thing for other outlets because I’m also done with KSDK.
I lived in St. Louis All my life! Channel 5 KSDK- Ain’t Never Been SHIT!!!!
My family has watched ksdk since I was old enough to remember. My Dad is 98 years old. When Anthony was let go I immediately boycotted channel 5 news. Since Rene was forced to retire My siblings, their grown and all successful, my Father abd many of my friends have joined in the boycott. Not just their news cast. All channel 5 programming is included. Shame on you ksdk. I hope more viewers will do the same and join us in our boycott. You call yourselves “The KSDK Family,” I don’t know how you can even say that in good faith. I believe in God and Karma. Sooner or later Karma will catch up with all those involved with your unethical practices.
I agree. The bigots are in power.
HR mostly will side with the accuser over the accused 9 out of 10 times, they really won’t do their jobs of investigation. They take the easy path. And people get burned. It’s too easy today for a pillar of the company to get dragged down. This has happened to my wife too.
Sooo am I! This was a setup!🤔😡.
I’m DONE and spreading the word about this!
🥳MAD BLACK WOMAN
from
A D@MN 📍RED STATE
Agreed!!
Totally agree. I’m sure he’s not the only person that has made a comment about crime in STL or about co-workers jokingly. They wanted him out and that’s how they elected to do it.
Me too! I stopped watching when they got rid of my favorite weatherman all of a sudden and put this dry man that has no personality in his place. KSDK will not be watched in my house anymore
Facts!!!!
Yrp! Unfortunately, that’s how they do it these days. I will never watch channel 5 news again.
Sometimes HR goes batshit WOKE. They make a mountain out of a mole hill.
First Slaughter, now Knott. Something is rotten at Ksdk.
I totally agree.What has happened to this station?
And the people on it complaining about the things they do seriously get a life. It was bad enough for them to get rid of Anthony slayer.\nFor the reasons they did.
Kmov channel 4 is looking real good to me.
What I Said, they had been after him every since the Chinese lady came I saw a change in him when she came.
For ksdk to be more of a liberal and “woke” station, they sure don’t keep POC around long. Art Holiday is the only one to have left gracefully. Kelly Jackson will most likely be next on the chopping black, oops I mean chopping block.
Oh please …
POC has NOTHING to do with this.
Oh please !
Rene Knott worked for KSDK for over 21 years.
Did you NOT read that part in the article ?
POC status has NOTHING to do with it.
Mr.Rene Knott has been with ksdk for 21long yrs the best you got and this is the thanks he get, a knife in the back for his loyalty.
Ksdk will not be played on any television in my household ever again
Amen Sistah 🩷💚🩷💚
I stop watching after Anthony Slaughter left
Yep, me too.
Same here.
A. Slaughter, Chester Lampkin, Mike Bush and Kelly Jackson are the ONLY reasons I watched KSDK, when I DID watch KSDK!
Please let Mr. Knotts know that blacks at the higher levels of success are targets too. I refer him to a recent book by a black Psychiatrist titled “Framed and Profiled “– framedandprofiled.com.
Who would you believe? A long-time journalist with a record of integrity and a warm, happy on-air presence, or an unnamed, unavailable person with an ax to grind? I know what I think, and I see KSDK getting rid of their most experienced, trustworthy people in favor of young, cheap, untested replacements. Tegna is in the process of selling out to conservative conglomerate Nexstar, and this is apparently part of the process. So what if the quality of the station goes down? It’s bad news for all viewers as well as the employees. We will miss Rene a lot.
Nexstar is one of the companies who recently joined the ousting of Jimmy Kimmel and after the Disney/Hulu boycott, which included Nexstar and Sinclair, Nexstar refused to put Kimmel back into their viewers lineup.
Looks like it’s time to boycott KSDK AND TEGNA!!! Renee Knott should start his own platform on Substack. No corporate bullshit there.
Nexstar should be commended on refusing to put Kimmel on the Air!
Amen! Kimmel deserves to be Bud Lighted.
Mr.Rene Knott has been with ksdk for 21long yrs the best you got and this is the thanks he get, a knife in the back for his loyalty.
Ksdk will not be played on any television in my household ever again
Kind of reminds me of the situation with April Simpson on channel 2 years ago…..
Exactly!…I remember it well!
This
I”m looking forward to seeing what he does next. UPWARD, RENE! But please stay in St. Louis! LOVE YA!
I wonder if he have a chance to face his accusers. I think a person who is accused should always be allowed to face their accusers. It’s easy for a person to say someone said this or that when they know they don’t have to face the person they’re accusing.
I agree should be able to face said accuser
He is in my opinion an honest stand up man! WTF ! Im sure theres a political reason he doesn’t work at channel 5 ! I will never watch it anymore
I totally agree! I was a dedicated Channel 5 viewer for years! NO MORE!
After Monica Adam’s was asked to leave, I was dumbfounded! However she has gone on to so much more!
Then Anthony Slaughter? I thought he was fantastic!!
I LOVE Kelly Jackson and now more rumors of her possibly leaving?
Come on!!
Done, done, done with KSDK CHANNEL 5 in St Louis Missouri!
I enjoyed Rene and don’t believe he did those things. Wherever he lands I’ll watch him. God Bless you Rene I’ll be praying for you.
This saddens me. This is another example of why we cannot trust others. Only do your job and go because people will turn on you quickly regardless of how well you work and or how dedicated you are. Wow, I’m so sorry this happened to you.
I am very sorry to hear Rene Kmott
Was asked to resign
This was not a good move by KSDK
Renee always seemed like a real good dude. If he was my neighbor, I would give him an extra key to my house.
Part of the right-wing agenda to erase all successful black men.
I’ve enjoyed your Sports and journalistic reporting and professionalism over the years, I’m sorry to hear they had such little respect for you! I hope to see you in the near future back on TV. I haven’t watched you or KSDK ever since they let Anthony Slaughter go. What a sad Network it has become..Good Luck to you, you’ve overcome challenges before I’m sure you will this time also!
This is so sad. Rene, a good man that people loved. I wish him the best and KSDK really screwed up in my opinion. There is so much greed in our world today.
Thanks to you Rene Knott for your journalistic expertise and weekly service in what you gave us every morning waking up in Saint Louis.
You will be missed, the news on KSDK lost a great journalist this month.
God bless you dear Brother on your future endeavors.
This sounds like a setup plan and simple I will never watch this channel again channel 5 you have made a real mistake you will be boycotted just like all the rest of them
Will we ever be free. We work our fingers to the bone while Mr Charlie gets rich off our BLOOD SWEAT and TEARS and as soon as we get up they SNATCH the rug from under us. Hoping that we fall on our face but we fall on our knees and we will rise again. Keep the Faith and remember NO WEAPONS THAT IS FORMED AGAINST US SHALL PROSPER.
Not surprising. KSDK has always had issues. Ill never forget back when Bob Richards committed suicide. There isn’t one news station controlled by a corporation that hasn’t had its share of drama, and KSDK has definitely no stranger to this.
What’s going on at KSDK? This sounds like a misunderstanding on the other person’s behalf. God bless U Rene will b praying for u and your family…
PL
Corporate America is difficult for educated Blacks, especially Black males. We never know who to trust or where we stand in the rankings. We work hard and achieve more than our counterparts, but as l was told many times, you are still black . Believe me it never stops hurting.
This smells wrong! Looks like a target to me. Looks as if someone is afraid to supervise him. (Too old. Can’t tell him anything when I’ll bet they didn’t try in the first place.) I would seek counsel.
This yet another baseless accusation by someone unnamed.
This no doubt driven by the age discrimination bias that many saw when KMOV dumped popular long standing on air personalities.
It is grossly unfair to allow hear say to wreck a career.
It’s a money game, what can we do to make it look like complaints from coworkers & force him out. You give all you got, you pour your heart and soul into your job for them to later ask you to resign. Rene keep pushing forward never looking back & watch God work.
I was totally shocked! When I heard it on12:00 news!! Omg!! I feel you !! U know the inviroment in the World we live in today…case closed!! I appreciate All your years of service to STL …! My prayers are always with you !!! Much success!! 💯
KSDK is a Joke! 1st the newjack lady fired Anthony Slaughter now another Brotha Rene Knot. Hmmm..
More and more of our more “Liberal” media outlets seem.to be taken over by conservative conglomerates with deep cash pockets. As a requirement for takeover they ask that the so called “WOKE” employees be shown the door, by implying they made a disparaging comment about something or another, when in actuality it was a simple innocuous sentence or two that they made. Usually it’s NOT a white, male employee. 😏
KSDK continues to wax worse and worser over the years. Rene is right when he asks “Why are colleagues complaining now, after 20 years?” Seems “former” colleagues (or the newly hired Channel 5 news director from Cincinnati – Sinclair Broadcasting) wanted to terminate Rene, waiting until Art left. KSDK exhibits a pattern for targeting on air personalities who are confident, popular, and who are persons of color. KSDK needs to become a locally owned and operated NBC affiliate. Greater Saint Louis deserves so much better.
This does sound like a set-up to get rid of a long-standing anchor.
Sounds like he was railroaded. Very lame reasons leave me with a bad feeling about the move to replace POC.
That’s weird. Who was this unnamed interviewer and what was their motivation? Why would 5 execs weigh that unverifiable accusation over a trusted vetted employee? This entire situation is mighty shady and stinks to high Heaven.
Oh well…KSDK one less person to count in helping ratings soar—ME!
#TeamRene
Oh well…KSDK this move just cost you a rating—ME!
#TeamRene
We must continue to pray for our country. We are in such a bad way. The book of Revelation talks about the time is coming when people would rather believe a lie than the truth. I m done with 5, Anthony was bad, this is ridiculous.
CBS is replacing the head of their news with a rag magazine right wing Trump supporter and ABC and NBC will soon buckle so let the cleansing begin America a new king is in town!
I really hate that this happened to Mr. Knott. I can relate as a similar situation happened not only to me but several people I know that were with their company for 25+years. To save money they figured out a way to get rid of the long term, high paid employees and hire young cheap replacements. Keep your chin up Rene Knott, and enjoy your retirement. You deserve it! We will follow you if you decide to keep working.
This is do some very disturbing, stressful news. Thanks for-bringing this moment of ‘Urgency’to my/our attention… I remember Rene from the time he first came to St Louis. What a blessing he is to us. So, time is at hand…where do we go from here?!!!…
Why let the season adult go.After all these years us old timers knows what to say and how to deliver the n ews.After all these years now he cant just be kidding around anymore. These young folk are so timid now because they want you out of the way so they can have your job .They are so serious now that they can’t take a joke from us season workers. They really want to say that we are to old and dresses better than them so retire so I can get your job. That’s every where. Even at church. I will stop here for now.Its ridiculous .
They were out to get you out. There wasn’t anything you could do. I’m really sorry this is how it went down. After so many years you deserve a glowing exit! I’ve met you twice in person and I found you to be kind, funny and genuine.
KSDK has done this many,many times! I will not watch them anymore. They just did this to Anthony Slaughter not too long ago. They are not the company I want to patronize anymore! 🤬🤬🤬🤬🤬🤬🤬🤬🤬🤬🤬🤬🤬🤬
This was definitely a set up. The ratings are going down. Also, the back biters are staring at the cameras everyday!
What weak ground these accusations stood on. His colleagues should speak out or protest. Renee and Anthony Slaughter both deserved better. We should all make some inquiries with the station 1-314-421-5055 since they won’t comment here.
I knew there was something different, but I couldn’t put my finger on it. I very seldom watched the news as it is but I knew I was missing that perkiness that spontaneity come to find out now I know why it’s a sad day, but the reality is no job is guaranteed.
Done with KSDK. It appears 😳 that the organization prefers the face of an all WHITE cast. I always watched the newscast, and enjoyed the staffs energy and teamwork together ❤️. Let’s see what happens next.
KSDK you really made a huge mistake and not the first . I have lost faith in your station .
Cancelling the App !
Wishing you and your family the best Rene!
What’s up with channel 5 seems to be getting rid of all long term employees and black employees. No longer my news station, been watching for probably 45 years.
Companies take things to far. Why didn’t HR just have common sense and have a one on one talk with Rene and the higher-ups. Those big shots are true Assholes!!
KSDK has sucked for some time now anyway. Viewership has dropped recently, especially at the news desk. Rene Knott was lucky to get off that sinking ship! Good luck to him and his family. I’m sure employers are lining up.
Sadly, the foolishness continues in ever industry certain people are in. It is extremely unfortunate that this type of situation caused Rene Knott to leave a position held for 20+ years. My prayers are with him and his family for a better work environment and appreciation for the value he brings as a person & journalist. God bless! 🙏🏽
So sad, I think you could see it coming at the weather lineup changed. Bigger and better ahead!
I cannot believe this. So is this another “bend the the knee thing”. When is it going to stop. I hardly recognize my USA any more.
Threatening to stop watching is wrong tactic. You should now watch KSDK and note each commercial then EVERYONE contact those people and tell them you will NOT patronize them for advertising on KSDK.
Should file a lawsuit. .KSDK
See a lawyer.
Well, I see this station is falling into possibly the “Trump Trap”!! Who takes gossip and not facts!! It is hard to believe! And I think those who are “so worried “ about him need to be brave enough to come out. Mmmmm!! Sounds like a suit to me. Good luck, Rene! A station with integrity!!
I’m new to the St. Louis area, but have enjoyed watching Rene on the news. He was professional, yet warm, and approachable. It is not difficult to believe that there are numerous people who are , “disturbed” , most likely young, ultra conservative, and unable to be around someone who doesnt not into their narrow lane of beleifs.This is but another sign of our sad times. I may be only 1 viewer, but so long KSDK.and Tegna. Yet another one bites the dust……who is next to fot the guillotine?
Rena is a great person. He will be the better for KSDK’s decision. This is just another example of POC being pushed back/down. An employee works for you for 20+ years and you affect his livelihood like this. It’s sad!!!! But GOD is in control Rene, you will be fine/better.
Several “fellow” employees conspired they didn’t like Rene and used the snowflake approach to get him out. Karma will get you. I turned down a good position with an industry leader and very nice compensation package because they were too woke. They put too much emphasis on the acceptance and tolerance of the alphabet community rather than excellence in service. I’m not calling a dude in a skirt “mam”.
I enjoyed listening and watching his warm presence his warm and s soothing voice over a cold crispy morning or a smooth voice in the warm of the summer , they lost a good one this crazy, nobody said any of those things he was real road sounds pretty racicst to me that news channel want last long; anyone else been there that long should probably follow suite with Mr. Rene; KSDK you should be a shame of your self ; I want to say something worst but I can’t
Working 21 years where was his supervisor- seem like someone wanted his job- he must have did something right
This sounds like he was pushed out. Management tried really hard to find something on Rene so they could kick him to the curb 😡 KSDK lost a viewer. I used to enjoy the camaraderie. I’m sure the remaining employees are walking on eggshells. That’s a toxic work environment for sure!
Mark 3:25 (Byington)
For a station needing to up their ratings the recent firing of Anthony and Rene’ I regret to say no more watching Ksdk news programs.
Well, the channel selector will land anyplace other than KSDK channel 5 in our household from now on. Rene Knott what is one of the bright spots, as was Anthony Slaughter. So sorry to see them go.
Its all about black people being ostracized due to this administration!
BOYCOTT KSDK
I don’t know Rene personally, but I have watched him over the years! I have come to respect his character, humbleness and his seemingly dedication to his profession and people, I feel that KSDK and its owner has done a disservice to him and POC. I for one will not watch or support a company that encourages division in our society! Stay encouraged Rene!!
I don’t know Rene personally, but I have watched him over the years! I have come to respect his character, humbleness and his seemingly dedication to his profession and people, I feel that KSDK and its owner has done a disservice to him and POC. I for one will not watch or support a company that encourages division in our society! Stay encouraged Rene!!
I want the whole story. Where are his accusers and don’t ever resign if you did nothing wrong. “Why would I wanna work here” … WHY??? Because you have a family and a mortgage
Since I don’t have any information that the public don’t have i have to believe that there needs to be a indepth investigation of the HR department at the station 21 years is a lifetime to give up for pure B S ??
I’m so done with 5. Anthony gone cause everyone was doing extra duties. To them that said they don’t want Me Knott to return. They want his spot. 5 is using Paul Cook for anchor. A degree in journalism. Y’all need to be sued channel 5. The ratings going to plummish. I’m sure it has already with comments. I welcome channel 4 into my home last week
Where ever Renee Knott goes I’ll be tuned in
What a terrible way you just were hating on this man because he stood out these people in this world are hateful people 🙏 GOD, 👀 every thing NO weapons formed against Rene shall prosper l won’t ever look at channel 5 again Devil channel!Shame on you All
It’s their M. O. I am the least bit surprised!
Railroaded for sure will never watch ch5 again 1st the Best Meteorologist now Rene Knott.Gonna go down Hill from here.
Having lasted as long as he did, it’s difficult to believe his character is flawed to the degree that would warrant dismissal. Anyone acquainted with tales of HR would likely view them as suspect. HR generally looks out for HR, and who they are beholding to.
Wife and I met Rene at a function honoring the Negro Baseball League. Great guy, always positive. Channel 5 going to lose a lot of viewers, including us
Sad. People lie. Don’t have it on video or recording. Did not know him but someone probably benefited from him being accused. Been there…
I hope Mr. Knott takes the practical course and pursues KSDK in court.
I personally like watching more masculine news reporters as Rene was & no longer watching Ch 5 KSDK news because it has really went downhill.
GOD open and closes our doors. Look at how far HE have brought you and taking you farther. Faith is the key and prayer unlock the door. Look up and learn. GOD bless you!
Powerful man with a Powerful voice guess he commanded too much attention
How many people have resigned or been let go since that snake racist Gary Frank came on board. He is probably the one that stated Rene seemed more agitated. I knew he was a young racist by the way he would talk to Sidney Stalwell when he first arrived. I hope many will stop tuning in to channel 5.
Tracy, Thanks for your comment.
I’m switching to CBS or FOX. KSDK is no longer the leader the four quarters of highway 40. (High income viewers).
This is horrible, I not shocked though, because this is what has become of our country, we stand with you Rene Knott
I have had the pleasure and the utmost respect for you and your reporting of the news and your ability to humanize the story and the Power of representation of The Lou and I appreciate all of your heart felt conversations with you in the morning. Even though I was just watching you on TV I wish you and your family the love and happiness in your life 💜 thanks for All you have done. Much success and God’s speed 🙏.
I am so sorry that happened to you. But guess what Rene Knots. Relax, Keep your eyes on God, He is in control of everything. I enjoyed Channel 5 because you and just a few others seemed motivating and inspiring regardless of what the world was experiencing at this time. Now what….? We will survive! God says so, and I believe Him. I am praying for you and your family.
I gave up on KSDK fired Cindy Pressler, best weather gal they had.
Don
So sad Rene had to leave under those circumstances.Good luck to him and his family.
Good luck Rene Knots. I was a long time fan watching you on Channel 5. May your journey begins anew in another direction. Now that you and Anthony Slaughter are gone. I’m pretty sure ratings will go down. Please everyone delete the app. Praying for you and your family.
There has to be more to this story. What I suspect is, after 21 years on the job, his benefits and salary were high. For NBC management, HR could have fabricated the complaints in order to fire him or that he willingly resigned-to avoid the ‘stigma’ of being fired. This happens all the time. It is much cheaper to hire ‘newbies’ to reduce overall salary payouts to long time employees,than salary to new people. Of course, there might be behind-the-scene political reasons. Liberal (i.e. woke) reporters are being targeted by the current GOP Administration. And, Missouri is definitely not a ‘woke’ state.
KSDK, has never been news for all of the STL, so the erasure of a good St. louis, reporter is common for them. ksdk is……💩.
I think that was egregious on behalf of the network. I thought it’s based upon his years of work history, and no violations. The media should have taken a different route with their discipline. I think it violates his freedom of speech as a journalist. This reminds me of the incident with the night show host.
KSDS is racist narcissist; I will never watch them ever in life, I pray that he sue them.🤬🤬🤬
Bye KSDK. Eliminated the best talent.
I think he has cause to hire an employment attorney to get to the bottom of this.
When HR schedules you for a face-time call, the decision is already made based on an “investigation” that can only be likened to a witch trial. Layers of corporate-think have pre-determined an outcome that in no manner aligns with the facts of what may have occurred in the workplace. This is the new world we live in. It is a post-fact, post-truth world. Sadly, the only realistic way to survive in that particular environment is to make the same allegation against supervisory staff to whom an allegation was lodged against you. That is a dog-eat-dog world that is guaranteed to burn out even the most productive employees.
I’m extremely disappointed in the decision to force Rene Knott to resign. President and General Manager, Alicia Elsner has been with KSDK a very long time and this was a bad call. She’s over HR and Missouri is a Fire-at-will state, and without knowing the truth about Rene Knotts departure, the allegations should be investigated by an attorney. KSDK will lose household ratings and market share by letting Rene Knott go. I’m switching to the CBS or FOX affiliate going forward. SMH!
This is so wrong! People who are this sensitive are mentally ill! There is so much pettiness now days! Renee was a great newscaster! My opinion is who ever made the complaints to HR should be investigated as they probably have a lot to hid!
unbelievable – a man of integrity – great to listen to and I always enjoyed watching him from sportcaster to anchor! I was present at his Edwardsville Sports Hall of Fame hosting and he made the night special!!! no more ksdk for me
5 on your side!! Guess not Rene! I think you are awesome. Get a good lawyer! Don’t look back! Good luck going forward!
Whow …..The terminations of Mr Anthony Slaughter and Mr. Rene Knott by KSDK Channel without official reason than no comments / Silence leaves more to desired regardless of cause it is important for the station to realize that apart from commerce and financial considerations the employees involved represent a segment of the society hence total consideration should always be made when considering the future of an employee especially in these cases very gooooood, talented, productive employees that are well liked by the community they serve , the fact remains that they bring their share to the ratings and market value of your enterprise…..
With these decisions……I, join others in NOT watching your channel or anything related to KSDK Channel 5 hence forth …to me your Station is not for mainstream media and no wonder the ratings will continue to dwindle …..” you can not cover a smoke when there is a fire …..”
Been there, seen it and done it! Worked there years ago and was lied on, set up and fired. KSDK, is a hard place to work. Especially being a minority. And I was in the union, and they turned their backs on me. So I never had a chance for support or defense. All because of what someone said.
Thts racist Missouri for you… when a black person during good… For they peoples, here comes whitety with a dress for a brother to put on…
U have to recognize when it’s time to GO!! U feel it u just ignore it being a long time employee they’re looking to replace u for any made-up reason. Stay strong ( being BLACK) in this country comes with a different set of RULES!!!!
The pain doesn’t come from being stabbed in the back. The pain comes, from turning around and seeing who did the stabbing. Rene Knott deserves way better than this. The people know it, the station knows it and the anchors know it. Shame on all of them.
I think you lost a very good Person, a Person With High level of Professionalism, This is Your Lost ,Sad,Sad, Sad. Mr.Knott, Don’t look
Back
Forget resigning, they would have to fire me. Then I know who the culprit/s were that made the accusations against me. I would also be able to draw unemployment benefits if I weren’t given a severance package.
I will no longer watch ksdk 5 after 30 years of watching.
My parents watched channel 5 morning news diligently and so did I, as well as my children and grandchildren. Not anymore. We’ve all switched to channel 4 or 2 morning news. Anthony Slaughter, Sydney Stallworth, Diamond Palmer, Art Holliday, and Rene Knott being the last straw, did it for me and my family. The morning weather couple are horrible. The lady is too Nasally and her voice is very annoying and her husband is dry and boring, lacking the personality for morning TV. That other guy who takes his glasses on and off thinks he’s funny, but he’s not. Art, Jennifer, and Cubby (Scott) made the morning news inviting and interesting. They were followed by another great group of journalists. This new lineup sucks. I have to remember to switch back to The Today show on 5 at 7am. KSDK News’ new “head honcho” is causing the station to lose many long time viewers and also the younger generation, who generally watch the news channels they were raised watching.
KSDK has been going down hill for a while now. Getting rid of you just shows the poor judgement on management. The morning show is a joke! I can’t even watch it anymore. It’s sad because I grew up watching channel 5 and I find myself changing the channel often.