WGN's Steve Bertrand to Retire After 40 Years on Air

RADIO ONLINE | Wednesday, October 29, 2025 | 2:26pm CT

Steve Bertrand

WGN Radio afternoon news anchor Steve Bertrand will retire from broadcasting on November 13, marking the end of a four-decade career with the iconic Chicago News/Talker. Bertrand, who celebrated his 40th anniversary at WGN earlier this year, has been a trusted voice for listeners and colleagues alike since joining the station in 1985.

"From joining WGN Radio in 1985 during the Wally Phillips era to anchoring news on the Lisa Dent Show today, throughout his 40 eventful years here Steve has faithfully maintained the highest standards of journalistic integrity, combined with his own unique gift for playful on-air banter," said WGN Vice President and General Manager Mary Sandberg Boyle.

A native of Manteno, IL, and graduate of Marquette University, Bertrand began his WGN career as an intern before being hired full-time. Since 1992, he has served as a news anchor, working alongside some of the station's most recognizable names, including Wally Phillips, Roy Leonard, Spike O'Dell, and the duo of Kathy O'Malley and Judy Markey-known to listeners as "The Girlfriends."

"I feel like I'm the luckiest guy in the history of radio," Bertrand said. "As a kid, I dreamed of one day living in Chicago. I never imagined I'd be part of her daily conversation. I will forever be grateful to the legends I worked with and, most especially, the listeners who made it all happen."

Colleague and WGN host John Williams added, "Our loss is Steve's gain. But boy, are we gonna miss him. He has been the stable, warm, and wise voice for Chicago radio for so many years. Chicago needs more Steve Bertrands."

Bertrand's career highlights include six seasons covering the Chicago Bears when WGN served as the team's flagship station, interviewing Coach Mike Ditka live from the locker room. He has reported on major news events such as the death of Mayor Harold Washington, the 1990 Plainfield tornado, the Oklahoma City bombing, and the September 11 attacks.