‘Livid and shocked!’ Popular SWFL meteorologist firing blows up social
A popular Southwest Florida meteorologist known for his humorous weather memes is on WINK News.
Matt Devitt announced on January 10 that he was no longer working for the Fort Myers-based television station. People particularly praised Devitt for his work during Hurricane Ian in 2022, with many saying he kept them calm and informed as they made landfall in Lee County.
“LIFE UPDATE: After 10 years, my time at WINK News has come to an end following my departure from my position as Chief Meteorologist on Thursday.” Posted on Facebook and other social media.
“This decision was not one I expected or accepted, and I was not given the opportunity to say goodbye on air. It came as a complete shock to me, my family and my colleagues.”
WINK officials were unavailable for comment on Jan. 11.
Social media stood up after Devitt was fired
Devitt must have been a little overwhelmed by the outpouring of love and support.
The Facebook post announcing his removal from WINK had more than 22,500 comments and more than 60,000 reactions as of January 11.
“We should all write to Wink…the best weatherman in the country?” wrote Darlene Conard.
Sherry Habelow Ballou commented, “The entire audience is outraged and shocked! Wink will NEVER be the same.”
“Your voice was literally what kept us calm during Hurricane Ian. When we woke up the next morning and Wink went off the air, my wife and I literally said, ‘Oh my God, I hope Matt is okay,'” Liz Affeldt-Bailey said.
“I’m very surprised this was handled this way. We wish you the best as you are a great meteorologist who clearly loves his community.”
Devitt shared funny weather memes
His popularity has spread beyond Southwest Florida, especially for his hilarious memes about the Sunshine State’s weather.
Devitt’s Facebook page had more than 1.2 million followers and instagram And X Social media accounts were also very popular.
“It has been an honor and privilege to serve our Southwest Florida community over the past decade, especially through Hurricanes Irma, Ian, Helene, and Milton,” Devitt wrote on Facebook.
“I have always given you everything I have in mind with one goal in mind: to keep you safe and informed without exaggeration. Although this episode ended differently than I had hoped, I wish WINK News, along with my former colleagues and the weather team, the best.”
“I will continue to provide weather updates on this page, but it will no longer be on TV. My new Facebook name is changing to Matt Devitt Weather, you’ll see that shortly. In addition to sending Facebook messages, you can always email me at MattDevittWX@gmail.com.
“I’m taking a short break professionally to reset and be with my family. I miss them and look forward to every minute. I’ll keep you all updated on what’s next.
“Thank you to everyone who reached out with support, this meant more to me than you might think.”
Dave Osborn is regional features editor for the Naples Daily News and The News-Press. Contact him at dosborn@usatodayco.com and follow him on Instagram @lacrossewriter.
This article first appeared in the Fort Myers News-Press: Matt Devitt, fired from Florida TV channel, blasts Facebook
