Lexington television reporter and radio host DeAnn Stephens has been fired from WKYT for not getting a COVID-19 vaccination.
In a Facebook post on Oct. 13, Stephens explained that Gray Television, the company that owns WKYT, now requires all staff to get vaccinations. “Unfortunately, due to my medical history, my physician has told me I am not a candidate for the COVID-19 vaccination,” Stephens wrote. “I have explained my medical history and provided my doctor’s records and her opinion to Gray. But sadly, Gray has terminated my employment instead.”
Stephens stressed that her decision not to get vaccinated was solely medically based and not political. “This is not about being for or against vaccinations. This is about following my doctor’s recommendation to not get it because of my past medical history and current medical issues.”
Out of respect for differing views on vaccinations, Stephens said she will not be responding to comments on the matter.
Stephens concluded the post by thanking her viewers for their support over the years and WKYT for her time with them. She also left readers of the post with a Bible verse: “‘Trust in Jesus with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; In all thy ways acknowledge Him, and He will direct your paths.’ Proverbs 3:5.”
The firing marks the end of a 27-year career with WKYT, which has yet to respond to other news outlets regarding the firing.
While Stephens will no longer be reporting for the WKYT station, viewers and listeners can still find her on her show “Out and About” and on the radio program “Officer Don and DeAnn” at 98.1 The Bull.
