Beloved News Anchor Abruptly Quits After 12 Years On Air

Kimberly Bookman, a reporter at WHDH’s 7News in Boston, announced her departure from the station after 12 years. She will be officially signing off from the station on Tuesday evening.

“12 years. It’s the longest amount of time I’ve ever stayed at any job. Come Tuesday, I will sign off from 7News – WHDH Boston for the last time,” Bookman first announced on Sunday. “I always strived to be responsible in my reporting – knowing how important words are during challenging times, breaking news, and on emotional subjects. I trained nearly every reporter who walked through the doors in the last decade… I am proud of my contributions here.”

Bookman emphasized that the decision was voluntary, adding, “This is my choice. I believe the best stories are the ones that keep unfolding. So stay tuned… the next chapter is just beginning!”

Bookman, a Needham native and graduate of American University with a bachelor’s degree in broadcast journalism, joined 7News in August 2014. Prior to that, she worked at WCVB in Boston, where she covered the Boston Marathon bombings as events unfolded and reported on the capture of James “Whitey” Bulger.

Her work has earned multiple awards, including a regional Robert E. Murrow Award, three New England Emmy Awards, one Southeastern Emmy, and recognition from the New York State Broadcasters Association and the Associated Press. She received Emmys specifically for coverage of the Mattapan Massacre and a Massachusetts Water Resources Authority water main break.

7News's Kimberly Bookman to sign off after 12 years. What she said https://t.co/WompnxOfj3

— Milford Daily News (@milforddaily) August 4, 2026

Colleagues and viewers responded to her announcement with messages of support. “Wow congrats on 12 years! You know I’ve always called you the MVP of our station! And those words ring so TRUE! You are kind, incredibly smart, always had exclusive stories & operate with such compassion with those you interview and encounter. You are a SUPERSTAR and don’t ever forget it,” 7News anchor Amaka Ubaka posted on Instagram.

“I’m so proud to be part of your team, Kimberly. You’re one of the most dedicated journalists in the field, leading with a mindset of community service both at work and outside of it. Wishing you all the best and many blessings in this new chapter,” said fellow anchor Keke Vencill.

Sunbeam Television, which owns WHDH, did not issue a public statement on the departure at the time of initial reports. Bookman has not detailed her next professional steps, noting only that the following chapter is beginning.

POLL: Should Foreigners Be Banned From Buying American Farmland?