Fans of former WKRC-TV meteorologist Michelle Boutillette are lighting up the web over her return to Channel 12 on weekends.
How else can I explain that my July 2015 story, "Michelle Boutillette Returns To WKRC-TV Newscasts," was trending on our website 2-1/2 years later?
"I can’t believe that story is trending!" says Boutillette, who quit Channel 12 five years ago to work at Cincinnati Children's Hospital. She's the business development manager for the Heart Institute at CHMC.
No, she's not planning a return to full-time TV. Or even a regular weekend TV position. She's too busy with her hospital job, and pursuing a master's degree.
Boutillette says she's just doing a little fill-in work for Channel 12's "Good Morning Cincinnati" weekend newscasts through March while Tera Blake is on maternity leave. Boutillette also did fill-in work on WLWT-TV when both Randi Rico and Jennifer Schack were on maternity leave in 2014.
I'll let her explain:
"I am still working at CCHMC and really enjoying my time here. I have been here for a full five years now and have found it to be a fun learning experience. I really value the work with patient families and those in the community!
"I am filling in at 12 on select weekends while Tera is out on maternity leave. I work alternating weekend mornings (Saturday or Sunday) as I have had both work and personal commitments to attend to. The next time I will be on air will be Saturday, Feb. 24th. I will be on for a few more weekends through March, and maybe a few days in April, although the schedule is not set yet.
"While I am really enjoying my time back in TV -- it’s been really fun! -- I truly enjoy my work with the Heart Institute at Children’s and currently do not have an interest in working full time in TV.
"My focus right now is finishing my MBA in Healthcare Administration (I graduate in July!!). So between my day job, homework and freelancing – this is about all I can handle right now!!!"
Always good to see you again, Michelle. I know your fans feel the same way.
