After 32 years in broadcasting, Chris Francis will retire (maybe) in August. At least, that is when he departs KIRO 7 for whatever new venture he may become involved in. Francis has worked at markets such as Portland, Maine – Washington, DC – Wilmington, NC – Norfolk, VA – Milwaukee – San Francisco … what’s next?
(X.com) “Well it seems, the cat is out of the bag. Yes, history does indeed repeat itself. I’ve been let go by
@KIRO7Seattle for the 2nd #%$^&*! time. Never thought I’d have something in common w Pete Carroll, Dave Hakstol and Mike Hopkins. That said, the farewell tour runs until August 1. Like Chuck and the @NBAonTNT crew, I’m goin’ 🎣 but “I’ll be hittin’ up LinkedIn” (Ugh)”
Chris Swanson, KIRO 7 sports producer was let go yesterday.
September 8, 2024 at QZVX
Donna Sauro says:
I can’t believe Kiro let Chris Francis go! Are you kidding me? He was the best sportscasters of any channel. If he is going to channel 13 then so am I ! Why would you let him go? I can’t believe it ! Shame on you, Kiro!
September 22, 2024 at QZVX
DonDonP1 says:
More than that: Chris is *back* at Fox 13. He used to work there when the station was branded as “Q13.”
October 11, 2024 at QZVX
SDL says:
What year(s) do you claim Chris worked there when Q13? I was there 87-22 and never saw him.
September 5, 2024 at QZVX
Gayle Urban says:
I moved to the Peninsula a number of years ago from a major market area. In my opinion, Chris is the best sportscaster I’ve seen in many years. He and Morgan (weather) made me a devoted KIRO 7 fan. And, as an avid multi sports fan, I haven’t seen any indication that KIRO is interested in keeping sports fans. It will be near to impossible to replace Chris – so what say you, KIRO? Best of luck to you, Chris – if you join another station, that community will definitely be lucky to get you! Thanks for your excellent coverage, analysis & enthusiasm!
BTW – no dis intended for the newscasters – they do their jobs well. But they don’t replace a sportscaster who is really knowledgeable about sports – can offer analysis, history, future projections about the full range of local teams.
September 2, 2024 at QZVX
Laura Peterson Leady says:
Chris Francis was the best sportscaster ever in Seattle history. I am a KIRO fan and follower and I am outraged by them letting Chris go. I love Monique and Gary Hatcher. Elle is doing a great job, but I believe Morgan can go and we prefer Nick, because he has grown up here.
Anyways,, shame on you for letting Chris go !! I am beginning to hate your channel now. 😥😥
November 21, 2024 at QZVX
JC says:
Nope. Glad he has moved on. The other three stations were much better than he and the new guy at Kiro is the bomb!! Kind of a jack-of-all-trades but very smooth delivery and is great on the sports as well as in the field and behind the desk.
August 30, 2024 at QZVX
Mike Barer says:
I often get the Chris’s in the Seattle media mixed up.
August 24, 2024 at QZVX
Jonnye Mastel says:
Chris, you brought me closer to being a sports fan than anyone else in 74 years. You had a great connection with your audience and a fun one with your coworkers. I miss you but wish you the best and hope you have fun in your future endeavors.
Thank you for sharing your talent with us.
August 17, 2024 at QZVX
DonDonP1 says:
Dang! I hope KIRO 7 would find the next sports director *and* the next *weekend* sports *anchor*.
August 9, 2024 at QZVX
Susan jarrett says:
Chris I have been waiting for you at the press box door! I finally guessed the truth and am very sorry to hear it. I will not be watching ch7 any more, that’s for sure.
All the very best in your future endeavors. You’re too young to retire!
Susan
June 22, 2024 at QZVX
X.COM says:
Steve Raible @RaibleKIRO7 (on X.COM)
Sorry to hear my friend. The business today is crazy. You are as good as there is out there and have no doubt there are still big things in your future. Keep the faith.