Kelly Bates Asks Supporters Not to Take Out Their Anger On NBC 10

Kelly Bates, a longtime meteorologist at NBC 10 WJAR, has urged her supporters to remain civil following her departure from the station. In a Facebook post, Bates expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support she received but requested that her fans not direct their frustration at her former colleagues.

“I’d respectfully ask that if you are motivated to advocate for me, please be kind to the newsroom staff of WJAR,” Bates wrote. “I appreciate all of you, and I can’t express how much your devotion to me has rocked my world.”

Bates’ departure from NBC 10, where she had worked for 17 years, sparked a significant reaction from viewers. Many expressed their disappointment and frustration on social media, questioning the station’s decision. While Bates did not provide full details of her departure, sources indicated that contract negotiations played a key role. According to reports, Bates was offered a similar contract to previous years but with fewer financial opportunities, making it difficult for her to continue under those terms.

NBC 10 addressed the situation in a statement, saying, “We thank Kelly for her dedication to WJAR and her commitment to keeping our viewers informed with critical weather updates throughout the years. We wish her nothing but the best in her future endeavors.”

As emotions ran high among supporters, some directed their anger toward the remaining meteorologists at NBC 10. Christina Erne, a meteorologist at the station, shared a message she received from an upset viewer that read, “YOU REALLY NEED TO PERK DOWN YOUR INNOCENT ‘DOROTHY GALE’ LOOK! NO MATTER WHAT YOU SAY, OR THINK OR ACT, YOU WILL NEVER BE BETTER …. THAN KELLY BATES!”

In response, Erne stated, “PSA: I have no tolerance for cruelty and rudeness. If you say one comment that doesn’t have to do with my forecasting, my job for the past two and a half years in southern New England, you’re blocked. No ifs, ands, or buts.”

Bates acknowledged disagreements with NBC 10 management but emphasized that many in the newsroom had supported her over the years. She urged her followers to remain respectful toward the station’s staff and focus on positive advocacy. Her message resonated with many supporters, who praised her professionalism in handling the situation.

The reaction to Bates’ departure also shed light on broader concerns within the station. Reports from current and former employees have described low morale and stagnant pay among staff. Some newsroom workers have voiced frustration over working conditions, particularly for younger reporters who often take on extensive workloads.

Lindsay Iadeluca, another former NBC 10 employee, weighed in on the situation and attempted to clear up speculation surrounding Bates’ departure. “I left news on my own. Period. I wanted a different life for myself. It’s not because of my weight… (but thanks as always for circling back to that cause clearly it has to be that superficial),” she said in a Facebook post.

Bates had previously acknowledged concerns about her future in television, saying in a Twitter post, “49 year old round woman, it’s safe to say my television career is done.” However, she clarified that her departure was not directly linked to comments about her appearance.

The situation continues to generate discussion among viewers and media professionals. While Bates’ departure has raised concerns about working conditions in the newsroom, she has made it clear that she does not want negativity directed at her former colleagues. Her request for civility stands as a reminder of the importance of respectful discourse, even in times of frustration.