WGN-AM/Chicago's Steve Bertrand Marks 40th Anniversary

RADIO ONLINE | Tuesday, June 3, 2025 | 9:29am CT

Steve Bertrand

WGN-AM/Chicago afternoon news anchor Steve Bertrand is celebrating a major career milestone: 40 years with the iconic Chicago station. A familiar and trusted voice to generations of listeners, Bertrand's four-decade run has included anchoring news across nearly every time slot and hosting a variety of programs known for his quick wit and sharp commentary.

"Steve has shared his entire broadcasting career with the WGN Radio audience and built respect, trust, and friendships along the way," said Mary Sandberg Boyle, Vice President and General Manager of WGN Radio. "It's a special relationship and four decades deserves recognition."

A Manteno native and graduate of Marquette University, Bertrand began his journey with WGN Radio as an intern before being hired full-time in 1985. He stepped into the news anchor role in 1992 and went on to work alongside WGN legends such as Wally Phillips, Roy Leonard, Spike O'Dell, and the beloved duo Kathy O'Malley and Judy Markey, also known as "The Girlfriends," where his banter added an extra spark to the show.

Reflecting on his career, Bertrand said, "Growing up in a small town, I always had my eye on moving to the big city. Never during those years of daydreaming would I have imagined the career I've had at WGN Radio. I'm so grateful. And lucky. Back in the day, many people might have considered my fantasy a pipe dream. But it turns out, dreams can come true."

During his time with the station, Bertrand also spent six years on the road covering the Chicago Bears when WGN was the team's radio home. He produced game broadcasts, hosted pre- and post-game shows, and interviewed head coach Mike Ditka live from the locker room.

Over the years, Bertrand has reported on major news events, including the death of Mayor Harold Washington, the 1990 Plainfield tornado, the contested 2000 presidential election, the Oklahoma City bombing, and the 9/11 attacks. He has also earned accolades for his author interviews, developing a national reputation in literary circles.