Ellen Leyva Announces Retirement After Nearly Three Decades at ABC7

LOS ANGELES, Calif. — Ellen Leyva, a beloved news anchor at ABC7, has confirmed her retirement after an impressive 29 years with the station. Leyva made the announcement on February 10 during the 3 p.m. broadcast, sharing her emotional decision with viewers.

“After much contemplation and introspection, I know I’m ready to make a move on and focus on my next great adventure in life,” Leyva stated on air. She reminisced about her time at ABC7, calling it her “home away from home” and expressed her gratitude for the connections she has made with colleagues and viewers alike.

Joining ABC7 in 1995 when her daughter was just eight weeks old, Leyva has served as a health reporter and co-anchored the station’s Eyewitness News at 4 p.m. and 6 p.m. Leyva reflects on her long tenure with pride, saying, “I’ve been truly blessed to work at the best news station in the best city.” She also highlighted the loving support she received during challenging times, including her displacement due to the Eaton Fire.

Born and raised in Tucson, Arizona, in a bilingual household, Leyva credits her background for enhancing her ability to connect with the diverse cultures of Southern California. She holds a degree in broadcast journalism from Arizona State University and was inducted into the Walter Cronkite School of Broadcast Journalism’s Hall of Fame in 2006. Her achievements include receiving an Impact Award for Excellence in Television from the National Hispanic Media Coalition.

Throughout her career, Leyva has participated in numerous high-profile events, such as flying with the Blue Angels and co-hosting the Academy Awards red carpet arrivals. “Almost 30 years later, I can say that I’ve been truly blessed, but the best part has been the people I work with and the viewers at home,” she said.

In an email to staff, KABC president and general manager Wendy Granato expressed her appreciation for Leyva’s contributions. “To say that she has been an invaluable and truly treasured member of our Eyewitness News team is an understatement,” Granato wrote. Leyva’s dedication to community service, such as leading the ABC7 team for AIDS Walk Los Angeles and advocating for mental health, has also been noteworthy.

As she prepares to leave, Leyva looks forward to spending her remaining months at ABC7 connecting with viewers and colleagues. “I’m excited for what’s next,” she concluded. “I’ll be here for a few more months, so you aren’t getting rid of me just yet.”