After nearly five decades of dedicated service to the people of San Antonio, award-winning journalist and beloved news anchor Deborah Knapp has announced her retirement from KENS 5, effective late May 2025.
“It’s been an honor to serve the wonderful people of San Antonio in this city I love for nearly 50 years,” Knapp said. “I love my KENS 5 family, so it was not an easy decision. I am thrilled to continue working with our talented staff as a mentor, and I will remain active with the Alamo Colleges Foundation.”
Deborah’s journey in broadcast journalism began in 1977 when she walked across the stage at The University of Texas at Austin, diploma in hand, and started the very next day as a “weekend weather girl” at KSAT. A year later, she was hired as weekend anchor at KENS 5, eventually co-anchoring the 5 p.m. newscast with Fred Lozano.
In 1980, Deborah took her talents to Philadelphia, anchoring the 5 and 11 p.m. newscasts at WCAU, before returning home to San Antonio and KENS 5 in 1987 following the birth of her daughter.
“For decades, Deborah has been the heart of our newsroom and a shining example of our commitment to both journalism and community,” said Tom Cury, KENS 5 president and general manager. “She embodies the spirit of San Antonio and the values of KENS 5 with unmatched grace and professionalism. While we’ll miss seeing her at the anchor desk every day, we wish her all the joy and fulfillment this next chapter brings.”
Knapp described news director Jack Acosta as “a joy to work for,” and he shares the admiration. “Working with Deb has been an absolute pleasure,” Acosta said. “She’s been a mentor to so many in our newsroom and a trusted colleague every step of the way.”
As she transitions into retirement, Deborah says she looks forward to more family time and enjoying the simple joys of life.
“I look forward to cherishing moments with my mother, children and grandchildren,” she said. “And I plan to spend more time dancing!”
Details about Deborah’s final broadcast date and on-air celebration plans will be announced in the coming weeks.
(This post was taken from a release sent to me by KENS 5)
