Lee Zurik and John Snell take on new roles; Lucy Bustamante returns home as Fox 8 morning anchor

NEW ORLEANS (WVUE) – Lee Zurik, WVUE-TV FOX 8's award-winning anchor and investigative reporter, will take on a new role as senior vice president of news strategy and innovation at Gray Media, the station's parent company.

Effective Oct. 10, Zurik will leave his current position at WVUE to focus on his duties at Gray following his term as the media company's director of investigations.

Zurik, a two-time Peabody Award winner, will continue to host the investigative program on weekdays InvestigateTV+which airs at 1 p.m. on WVUE and is a FOX 8 analyst.

His investigative work has earned him numerous prestigious awards, including three duPont-Columbia Awards and twelve National Edward R. Murrow Awards.

“I watched Lee grow from a young sports reporter into one of the best investigative reporters in the country,” said Sandy Breland, Gray’s chief operating officer. “I look forward to watching him grow in this new role as he shares his passion and commitment to quality local journalism here in New Orleans and throughout Gray’s national footprint.”

As Zurik assumes his new role, WVUE has announced that veteran anchor John Snell will take over the evening newscasts.

Snell will co-host the 5 and 10 p.m. shows with Meg Gatto and join Lauren McCoy at 9 p.m. His new duties begin on October 14th.

“We are so fortunate to have the experience and commitment of John Snell leading our evening newscasts,” said WVUE Vice President and General Manager Mikel Schaefer. “John’s deep understanding of the issues that matter most to our viewers is unmatched.”

Zurik said of the changes: “Although it was a difficult decision to step away from the evening newscasts, it certainly became easier to take on the role of a top journalist like John Snell.” There is no doubt that he has set the standard for excellence and continuous growth will occur.”

In addition to Snell's new role, popular former anchor Lucy Bustamante will return to WVUE's morning lineup beginning October 21.

Bustamante will join the star-studded morning show alongside Kelsey Davis, Rob Krieger, Zack Fradella, Kristi Coleman, Josh Roberson and Olivia Vidal.

“Coming home is very special, but returning to work with a team as important to our community as this is incredible,” Bustamante said. “It reminds me that this is a city where real journalism is not only still valued, but necessary.”

Bustamante's return is highly anticipated and fills a void that has been left in the hearts of many local viewers. Known for her warmth and professionalism, she will continue to provide the compelling reporting that has made her a household name in New Orleans.

“Lee Zurik is a great friend and I am excited for him and the return of Lucy, who I have known throughout her career,” said Snell. “We have a deep bench of people who are dedicated to their work and the needs of the audience. I’m really excited to be part of this team.”

The changes at WVUE reflect the station's commitment to delivering quality journalism and engaging with the New Orleans community.

As the station welcomes Bustamante back and prepares for Snell's expanded role, viewers can continue to expect excellent local coverage.

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