Lorei, 70, shared the news with viewers in tonight’s episode, adding that he’s been proud to host a show that welcomed elected officials, reporters, scholars, consultants, activists and more—all with a wide array of viewpoints.
“While there have been disagreements on the set over policy, no one has ever stormed off the program or left the set in anger,” he added. “We’ve shown it’s possible to shed more light than heat in these divided times.”
He also told viewers that he’s stepping down to deal “with a serious health issue, cancer.” Lorei expressed solidarity with anyone in the audience who has the disease, and those with a loved one in the same situation, adding, “my heart goes out to you.”
In a press release from WEDU, station President and CEO Paul Grove praised Lorei’s dedication, insight, and leadership, calling the lifelong newsman “an incredible pillar” of the PBS affiliate.
Lorei—a founder of Bay area community radio station WMNF who previously served as that station’s news director—is not leaving WEDU, however, and will host a new interview program, “Perspectives.”
“The show will feature thoughtful conversations with notable guests, exploring personal stories, experiences, and worldviews,” the release added. A spokesperson for WEDU told Creative Loafing Tampa Bay that “Perspectives” has not yet announced a launch date.
“Florida This Week”—which airs Fridays at 8:30 p.m. and again on Sundays at 12:30 p.m.—isn’t going anywhere either, Lorei told viewers, sharing that its new host is Lissette Campos, known locally for her time as an anchor on WFTS, Tampa Bay’s ABC affiliate.
Campos—an Emmy-award winner who most recently served as Senior Director of Strategic Branding, Marketing and Communications for the Tampa Bay Chamber—will interview Lorei on the March 14 episode of “Florida This Week” before taking over as host on March 21. “I leave you in her capable hands,” Lorei told viewers Friday night.
He then thanked Grove and the show’s longtime producer Spencer Briggs before turning to viewers and saying, “Thanks to you for watching ‘Florida This Week’ and for putting your trust in us to have a serious discussion about the most important issues in this wonderful state that we all love.”
This is a developing post.
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‘I’m not scared’: After revealing cancer diagnosis, WEDU’s Rob Lorei discusses what’s next
This article appears in Mar 6-12, 2025.