30 Facts About WAFB: A Comprehensive Look at Baton Rouge's Most-Watched News Station

WAFB, channel 9, has been a cornerstone of Baton Rouge's media landscape since 1953. As a CBS affiliate, it has grown and adapted to the changing times while maintaining a strong connection with its community. Here are 30 fascinating facts about WAFB that highlight its rich history and ongoing commitment to quality broadcasting.

The Early Years

WAFB's journey began in the early 1950s, setting the stage for television in Baton Rouge.

1. Founding Year
   WAFB started broadcasting in 1953, becoming Baton Rouge's first television station.

2. Affiliation
   The station is affiliated with CBS, one of the major television networks in the United States.

3. Ownership
   Gray Television, a leading media company, owns WAFB. Gray Television operates numerous stations across the country.

Programming and Local Productions

WAFB offers a mix of CBS programming and unique local productions that have become viewer favorites.

4. Programming
   WAFB airs popular CBS shows like The Price Is Right and The Young and the Restless. Adjustments to the schedule have been made over the years to optimize newscasts.

5. Local Productions
   "Buckskin Bill," a children's show hosted by William Black, ran from 1955 to 1990. It featured characters like "Señor Puppet" and "Whatsyourname" and aimed to educate children through fun content.

Community Engagement

WAFB's commitment to the community goes beyond broadcasting, involving active participation in local events and initiatives.

6. Community Engagement
   The station fosters strong partnerships and sponsors various events, demonstrating its dedication to community service.

7. Fundraising Drives
   WAFB participates in significant fundraising drives, further showcasing its commitment to the community.

Digital Presence

In the digital age, WAFB has expanded its reach through various online platforms.

8. Digital Platforms
   WAFB.com receives over 3 million page views per month, making it a primary news source for many in the Capital Region.

9. Mobile Apps
   The station's news and weather apps attract more than one million unique users each month, providing real-time updates and comprehensive coverage.

10. Social Media Presence
    WAFB has a strong social media presence, with more fans on Facebook and followers on Twitter than any other local news station.

News Production and Ratings

WAFB's news production is extensive, and its ratings reflect its popularity among viewers.

11. News Production
    The station produces 31 hours of local news each weekday, starting with the 9News Early Edition at 4:30 a.m.

12. Ratings
    WAFB's newscasts have consistently high ratings, with 16.2% of all households in the Baton Rouge area watching the 10 p.m. newscast.

13. Historical Ratings
    Initially, WAFB was second to WBRZ in ratings. Investments by AFLAC and Raycom improved WAFB's news product, leading to a shift in viewership.

Staff and Technology

WAFB's success is also due to its dedicated staff and investment in technology.

14. News Staff Stability
    Low turnover in the news staff has contributed to high-quality news production.

15. Theme Music
    The "Newschannel" theme by Gari Media was used from 1990 until recently, playing a significant role in branding the station.

16. Investment in Technology
    WAFB is undergoing a nearly $1 million upgrade and remodel of its News and Creative Services Departments.

Leadership

The station's leadership team plays a crucial role in its operations and community engagement.

17. General Manager
    Sandy Breland, Vice President and General Manager, emphasizes innovation and community engagement.

18. News Director
    Robb Hays, the News Director, highlights the importance of digital platforms in delivering impactful stories.

19. Marketing Director
    Brent Ledet oversees the station's marketing efforts, ensuring consistent promotion across all media channels.

20. Sales Manager
    Vicki Kellum, the General Sales Manager, handles sales and advertising efforts, working closely with clients.

Community Events and Religious Programming

WAFB's involvement in community events and religious programming further strengthens its connection with viewers.

21. Community Events
    The station actively participates in various community events, fostering a sense of trust among viewers.

22. Sunday Services Broadcast
    WAFB airs Sunday services from the First United Methodist Church in Baton Rouge, providing a platform for religious programming.

Syndicated Shows

Over the years, WAFB has aired several popular syndicated shows, contributing to its diverse programming lineup.

23. Family Feud
    Until 2020, WAFB aired the syndicated version of Family Feud hosted by Steve Harvey.

24. Who Wants to Be a Millionaire
    Until 2015, the station aired the syndicated version of Who Wants to Be a Millionaire, which later moved to WBXH until its cancellation in 2019.

25. The People's Court
    WAFB once aired The People's Court before it moved to WBRZ and later WGMB.

26. Jeopardy and Wheel of Fortune
    Jeopardy! and Wheel of Fortune aired on WAFB until 1995 when they moved to WBRZ.

27. Live with Regis and Kelly
    The station aired Live with Regis and Kelly (now Live with Kelly and Mark) until the late 1990s.

28. Oprah Winfrey Show
    The Oprah Winfrey Show was seen on WAFB until it moved to WBRZ and later WVLA until its conclusion in 2011.

Buckskin Bill's Legacy

"Buckskin Bill" remains a cherished part of WAFB's history, remembered fondly by many viewers.

29. Buckskin Bill's Legacy
    Hosted by William Black, "Buckskin Bill" was a beloved children's show that ran from 1955 to 1990.

30. Señor Puppet and Whatsyourname
    Regular characters on "Buckskin Bill" included "Señor Puppet" and "Whatsyourname," adding to the show's charm and educational value.

WAFB's Impact on Baton Rouge

WAFB has been a cornerstone of Baton Rouge's media landscape since 1953. As the first television station in the area, it has grown alongside the community, adapting to changes in technology and viewer preferences. From its affiliation with CBS to its popular local productions like "Buckskin Bill," WAFB has consistently delivered high-quality content. The station's commitment to community engagement, digital innovation, and stable news staff has made it a trusted source for local news, sports, and weather. With a strong digital presence and active participation in community events, WAFB continues to be a vital part of Baton Rouge. Investments in technology and a dedicated team ensure that WAFB will remain a leader in local broadcasting. Whether through traditional TV or digital platforms, WAFB's impact on Baton Rouge is undeniable and enduring.