Gracie Stockton is headed to mornings at 830 WCCO. The move fills a key vacancy at the Minneapolis news/talk station.
What We Know: 830 WCCO has named Gracie Stockton its new morning news anchor. The move marks her return to an on-air role after three years at Minnesota Public Radio. Stockton replaces Steve Simpson, who stepped away from the position earlier this month. He spent the past 14 years at the station. The hire gives the Audacy outlet a new voice during one of radio’s most competitive dayparts. Before joining Minnesota Public Radio as a producer and fill-in newscaster, Stockton also built experience in television news. She’ll officially begin her new role next week.
What They Said: “I’m thrilled to share that I’m moving from behind the scenes to in front of the mic and beginning a new chapter at WCCO and Audacy! After three years at MPR News as a producer and filling in as a newscaster, and several before that in TV, this is a very exciting step for me. I can’t wait to enter the hallowed halls of this legacy station next week as the new Morning Anchor/Host and Editor.” -Gracie Stockton
What Remains Unclear: Stockton’s start date has not been announced. It is also unclear who will fill her shoes at MPR.
What It Means: Morning drive remains a critical daypart for news/talk radio. It’s especially important at 830 WCCO. So filling the anchor position quickly provides stability for the station. Meanwhile, Stockton brings experience from both public radio and television, giving the station a journalist familiar with producing and delivering news. Her appointment also continues the industry’s trend of drawing talent with multi-platform experience into prominent on-air roles.
Barrett Media produces daily content on the music, news, and sports media industries. Sign up for our newsletters to stay updated and get the latest information right in your inbox.
Garrett Searight is Barrett Media’s News Editor, which includes writing daily news stories, features, and opinion columns. He joined Barrett Media in 2022 after a decade leading several radio brands in several formats, as well as a 5-year stint working in local television. In addition to his work with Barrett Media, he is a radio and TV play-by-play broadcaster. Reach out to him at Garrett@BarrettMedia.com.