The acquisition of WXYZ-TV by Maryland-based Sinclair Broadcasting is bringing concerns about local broadcast journalism quality to Detroit. Channel 7, which has been a staple in metro Detroit for over 77 years, may soon be under the control of a company with a history of corporate interference.
Sinclair’s ownership of WXYZ would make it its 179th TV station, surpassing federal law by 174 stations. The issue is particularly relevant to Sinclair, as it has been accused of ordering local news anchors to read copy sent down from corporate headquarters. In the past, Sinclair ABC stations have pulled anchors off late-night shows after they made comments that didn’t align with the network’s views.
The sale of WXYZ would also mark a change in ownership for Channel 7, which was launched in 1948 as part of a government-led split between NBC and its Red division. The station built a legacy of local on-air stars, including Bill Bonds, who became Detroit’s first million-dollar anchor. ABC’s gamble on Detroit paid off, with Channel 7 earning more than $18 million annually by the mid-20th century.
The station’s history is marked by legendary parties and employee pride in being part of the ABC family. However, when the station changed hands in 1985, employees reported a shift to a more frugal corporate culture under new ownership. The media landscape has since changed significantly with cable TV and the internet, but Channel 7’s ownership has remained stable until now.
As Sinclair’s acquisition looms, concerns are being raised about Bill Bonds’ legacy at WXYZ-TV. Will the station continue to prioritize local journalism, or will it succumb to corporate interference? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain – the future of Detroit’s television landscape hangs in the balance.
Source: https://eu.freep.com/story/opinion/contributors/2025/11/24/sinclair-broadcastings-news-heralds-big-change-for-wxyz-opinion/87404663007