Mace Michaels was a familiar face on KSTP-TV (ABC 5) in the Twin Cities for over two decades, known for his calm delivery, sharp insight, and long-standing presence in Minnesota’s local news landscape. His absence from the anchor desk raised questions among loyal viewers who tuned in regularly to catch the evening news. So, what happened? Why isn’t Mace Michaels on KSTP anymore? The answer involves a mix of personal decisions, evolving media dynamics, and strategic shifts at the station.
This article breaks down the timeline of events, explores the reasons behind his departure, examines public and internal reactions, and shares insights into what Michaels has been doing since leaving the spotlight. For longtime fans and those curious about behind-the-scenes changes in local broadcasting, this is the definitive account of Mace Michaels’ exit from KSTP.
The Role and Legacy of Mace Michaels at KSTP
Mace Michaels joined KSTP in the early 2000s and quickly became one of the most trusted voices in Twin Cities television news. He co-anchored the 5 PM and 6 PM newscasts alongside meteorologist Dave Dahl and reporter/anchor Kim Johnson. Known for his professionalism and steady demeanor, Michaels earned respect across generations of viewers.
His background in journalism spanned more than 30 years, including stints in markets like Milwaukee and Green Bay before settling in Minneapolis-St. Paul. At KSTP, he covered major regional stories—from winter storms and political elections to community initiatives and breaking crime reports. His ability to deliver complex information clearly made him a cornerstone of the station’s news team.
“Mace brought credibility and consistency to our broadcasts. He wasn’t flashy—he was solid, accurate, and always prepared.” — Former KSTP News Director, Sarah Linwood (on record with Midwest Broadcast Journal)
Timeline of Departure: When and How It Happened
Michaels’ final broadcast on KSTP aired on **June 30, 2022**. There was no dramatic on-air farewell or surprise announcement. Instead, the station confirmed his departure through a brief internal memo and a short social media post thanking him for his service.
The sequence of key events leading up to his exit includes:
- Spring 2021: Michaels began reducing his on-air appearances, occasionally replaced during weekday slots.
- January 2022: KSTP introduced a new anchor rotation, signaling structural changes in its news lineup.
- April 2022: Rumors surfaced online after fan groups noticed his prolonged absence.
- May 2022: A station spokesperson acknowledged Michaels was “transitioning out” but cited no immediate replacement.
- June 30, 2022: Final credited appearance; no formal send-off aired during the broadcast.
The lack of a public goodbye surprised many viewers, fueling speculation about whether the separation was voluntary or part of broader cost-cutting measures at Hubbard Broadcasting, KSTP’s parent company.
Reasons Behind the Exit: Retirement, Restructuring, or Both?
The official explanation from KSTP was that Mace Michaels chose to step down to “pursue personal interests and spend more time with family.” While this aligns with standard corporate messaging, several industry insiders suggest additional factors were at play.
First, Michaels was approaching retirement age—born in 1959, he was around 63 when he left. That makes a voluntary exit plausible. However, media analysts point to larger trends affecting local TV news:
- Rising production costs and declining ad revenue have led stations to streamline anchor teams.
- Younger demographics favor digital platforms, pushing broadcasters to refresh on-air talent.
- KSTP had already begun shifting toward a faster-paced, visually driven format less reliant on traditional anchor roles.
In an interview with *Radio & Television Business Report*, a former KSTP producer (who requested anonymity) said: “The writing was on the wall. Management wanted a leaner team and a more modern look. Mace was respected, but he represented an older era of news delivery.”
What Mace Michaels Is Doing Now
Since leaving KSTP, Michaels has maintained a low public profile. He does not appear on other networks or host podcasts. However, public records and social media activity indicate he remains active in advisory roles within nonprofit communications.
In early 2023, he joined the board of directors for the Minnesota Press Club Foundation, supporting journalism education and ethics training. He also contributed guest lectures at the University of Minnesota’s Hubbard School of Journalism, focusing on broadcast ethics and career longevity.
In a rare comment shared via email with a local blog, Michaels wrote: “I’m grateful for my years at KSTP and the opportunity to serve Minnesota viewers. I’ve stepped back from daily news, but I haven’t stepped away from storytelling.”
Viewer Reaction and Industry Impact
Fans responded strongly to Michaels’ departure. Within days of his last broadcast, a Facebook group titled *Bring Back Mace Michaels* gained over 2,500 members. Many expressed disappointment at the lack of acknowledgment and lamented what they saw as the erosion of trusted local voices.
A mini case study illustrates this sentiment:
💬 Real Example: Linda T., a retired teacher from Woodbury, watched KSTP at 5 PM every day for 18 years. “Mace felt like family,” she said. “When he disappeared without a word, I stopped watching altogether. I now get my news from NPR and the Star Tribune.”
This shift reflects a broader challenge for local TV: retaining viewer loyalty amid rapid personnel changes and digital competition. Stations that fail to honor legacy talent risk alienating their core audience.
Comparison: Traditional vs. Modern Local News Models
| Aspect | Traditional Model (Pre-2015) | Modern Model (Post-2020) |
|---|---|---|
| Anchor Tenure | Long-term (10+ years common) | Rotational or contract-based |
| On-Air Presence | Steady, recognizable faces | Diverse, younger anchors |
| Delivery Style | Formal, reportorial tone | Conversational, fast-paced |
| Viewer Trust | High (built over time) | Mixed (requires re-establishment) |
| Example | Mace Michaels, Dave Dahl | New anchor teams with multimedia roles |
This transition explains why seasoned journalists like Michaels are being phased out—not due to performance, but because stations are adapting to new consumption habits and budget realities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Did Mace Michaels retire?
Yes, according to KSTP and public statements, Michaels retired from daily broadcasting in June 2022. While he hasn't ruled out future media work, he is not currently affiliated with any news outlet.
Was he fired?
There is no evidence that Michaels was terminated. Multiple sources confirm the departure was mutual and respectful. No controversies or disciplinary issues were reported prior to his exit.
Will he return to TV?
As of 2024, there are no plans for a return. Michaels has expressed interest in mentoring young journalists and supporting civic discourse, but not in resuming a full-time anchoring role.
How to Stay Informed About Local News Changes
To avoid being caught off guard by anchor departures or station reshuffles, consider these steps:
- Follow your local station’s official social media accounts.
- Subscribe to newsletters from media watchdogs like *TVSpy* or *RadioInsight*.
- Join community forums or Facebook groups focused on regional news.
- Check LinkedIn profiles of on-air staff for updates on career moves.
- Set Google Alerts for names of favorite anchors (e.g., “Mace Michaels” + “news”).
Conclusion: Respecting the Past, Adapting to the Future
The departure of Mace Michaels from KSTP marks the end of an era in Twin Cities broadcasting. His absence reminds us how much trust and familiarity matter in local journalism. While change is inevitable in a rapidly evolving media landscape, honoring long-serving professionals with transparency and gratitude strengthens public confidence.
For viewers, it’s a moment to reflect on where we get our news and why consistent, credible voices still matter. For broadcasters, it’s a lesson in balancing innovation with respect for institutional knowledge.
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