In a move that has stunned local viewers and media circles, veteran morning news anchor Rene Knott has parted ways with NBC affiliate KSDK after more than two decades of service. The announcement, delivered during an internal staff meeting on Wednesday morning, marks the end of an era for the station’s flagship “Today in St. Louis” program.
3.6K views · 495 reactions | Thank you St Louis! Thank you for trusting me with your stories. Thank you giving me your time. Thank you for listening. Thank you for supporting. Thank you KSDK News for the opportunities. Love you ALL always. 🫶🏾 | Rene Knott
Thank you St Louis! Thank you for trusting me with your stories. Thank you giving me your time. Thank you for listening. Thank you for supporting. Thank you KSDK News for the opportunities. Love you…
Knott’s final appearance on air was Tuesday, October 14, just one day before the news broke internally. While the station has described the split as a resignation, the lack of fanfare and details has fueled speculation among fans and industry watchers about the true circumstances behind his exit.
Rene Knott joined KSDK in January 2004 as sports director, stepping into the role after Mike Bush transitioned to full-time news anchoring. Over the years, Knott followed a similar path, evolving from sports coverage to become a beloved co-anchor on the morning show alongside Michelle Li. His tenure spanned 21 years, during which he became a fixture in St. Louis households, delivering everything from breaking news to lighthearted features on the city’s vibrant culture.
In a heartfelt on-air segment marking his 20th anniversary in January 2024, Knott reflected on his journey: “It’s been a wonderful ride, and hopefully continues for another—I doubt 20 years, because I’d be like 80.” Colleagues chimed in with praise, with meteorologist Anthony Slaughter noting, “He does love to work. He’s the hardest working person on the morning team.” Knott’s dedication extended beyond the desk; he was known for his early-morning energy, love of football, and personal touches like sharing stories about his basset hounds and family life.
KSDK informed its news staff during the October 15 meeting that Knott had resigned and would not be returning, with a replacement stepping in to fill his slot on air. The station has remained tight-lipped, declining to provide further comment to media inquiries. Knott himself has deferred to the station’s statement, offering no additional insights in direct interviews.
No official reasons for the departure have been disclosed, leaving room for questions. On-air, reporter Mercedes MacKay hinted at the complexity of the situation, telling viewers the reality was “more complicated than simply filling in for a veteran anchor.”
Knott’s departure comes amid a wave of changes at KSDK, raising eyebrows about the station’s direction. In April, popular meteorologist Anthony Slaughter was fired in a decision that left him “dumbfounded.” July saw the alleged ousting of content director Morgan Schaab after just 18 months on the job. More recently, anchors Kay Quinn and news director Art Holliday retired after decades of service, capping a period of significant turnover.
Knott leaves behind a legacy of connecting with the Gateway City through authentic storytelling. While his immediate plans remain unclear, his video message hints at unfinished business in local journalism. “I pray I will have the chance again,” he said, leaving the door open for a potential return to the airwaves—perhaps at a rival station or in a new media venture.
For now, St. Louis mornings feel a little quieter without Knott’s familiar voice. Fans like me, hope this chapter isn’t the end, but a plot twist in a career defined by resilience and heart.
Charlie Marlow on X (formerly Twitter): “Sad to hear about @reneknottsports at KSDK. One of the good guys. Works hard. Cares about St. Louis. Ain’t right. / X”
Sad to hear about @reneknottsports at KSDK. One of the good guys. Works hard. Cares about St. Louis. Ain’t right.
