The Houston media world is mourning the loss and sending tributes to FOX 26 Houston KRIV 8am producer Maggie McKethan.
McKethan not only produced for "Houston's Morning Show" but also launched several FOX 26 shows, including "The Isiah Factor Uncensored," "News Edge," and "The Nightcap."
According to McKethan's LinkedIn profile, KRIV and KTXH Senior Vice President and General Manager, D'Artagnan Bebel, told McKethan, "Your leadership and producing are unmatched."
"I already miss her so much," FOX 26 morning anchor Melissa Wilson commented on my Facebook page. "It will NEVER be the same again without her. She was fuller than life itself."
"Life is precious," tweeted FOX 26 reporter Sherman Desselle. "[Maggie] was one of my first cheerleaders in Houston, and then I found out she was from Lafayette. I was sold. She took her job seriously, but also knew how to have fun. She gave me opportunities to shine, and I’m grateful We’ll miss you, for sure."
McKethan started with FOX 26 in January 2015 as an associate producer and was quickly promoted to producer.
Not only did the University of Mississippi graduate produce daily newscasts and help launch shows, but she was also a credentialed media member covering the Astros, Texans, Rockets, Dynamo, and Dash.
In the video below, you can watch a McKethan interview with Dynamo defender Erik Sviatchenko.
Members of the Houston sports community have shown their respect for the television journalist on Twitter.
Life is precious. @maggiemckethan was one of my first cheerleaders in Houston, and then I found out she was from Lafayette. I was sold. She took her job seriously, but also knew how to have fun. She gave me opportunities to shine, and I’m grateful We’ll miss you, for sure. 🕊️ pic.twitter.com/hwq4dpSHN1
— Sherman Desselle Fox 26 (@ShermanDesselle) February 27, 2024
It is with a heavy heart that we mourn the loss of Maggie McKethan with the Houston community. Maggie's contagious energy and thoughtful storytelling will serve as lasting memories for us all and we are forever grateful for the time we spent with her. More than a colleague, she… pic.twitter.com/s88KEW7XgW
— Houston Dynamo FC (@HoustonDynamo) February 28, 2024
It is with a heavy heart that we mourn the loss of Maggie McKethan with the Houston community. Maggie's contagious energy and thoughtful storytelling will serve as lasting memories for us all and we are forever grateful for the time we spent with her. More than a colleague, she… pic.twitter.com/2rKaLu6616
— Houston Dash (@HoustonDash) February 28, 2024
Maggie, I am in disbelief that you are gone. You were one of the most genuine friends I’ve had. Who will I laugh with at Lizzard’s? Who will I sing Rick James and quote Dave Chappelle with? Our weekly dinners, spending Thanksgiving, New Year’s, and Super Bowl together… Every… pic.twitter.com/j6941L693l
— Vanessa Richardson (@SportsVanessa) February 27, 2024
Very saddened & shocked when I heard the news of @maggiemckethan’s passing. We used to have these long chats in the @FOX26Houston newsroom when I was finished for the night and she was getting ready for the morning show. Maggie was a big believer in the Ho Chen. She’ll be missed
— Howard Chen 陈定豪 (@TheHoChen) February 27, 2024
We at @tudnhouston would like to extend our deepest condolences to the family and friends of @MaggieMcKethan.
— César Procel (@_cesarprocel) February 27, 2024
We are absolutely gutted with the news of her passing.
Over the past couple of years, we got to know her, and she quickly became "our people."
I can absolutely… pic.twitter.com/WCWLMtsLLM
Shocked & devastated by the passing of @maggiemckethan. One of the most fun loving & funniest people in Houston media, and thus one of my favorite drinking buddies. She’s going to be missed by anyone lucky enough to meet her. 💔 pic.twitter.com/Droc4MBedz
— Paul Gallant (@GallantSays) February 27, 2024
We are devastated to learn about the passing of @maggiemckethan Vibrant, energetic, friendly and passionate about sports & Soccer in particular. Maggie will be missed but her aura will forever illuminate and serve as a beacon to many of us. Gone way too soon. Shine on Maggie. pic.twitter.com/vm0yRdPllA
— Alex R Parra (@alexrparra) February 27, 2024
What? Omg. I’m literally heartbroken. @maggiemckethan was such an amazing person.
— Patrick Creighton (@PCreighton1) February 27, 2024
Just stunned. In tears.
It wasn’t that long ago we were just talking in the press box at the Texans game.
Love ya Mags. Lost a sister today. #MaggieMcKethan https://t.co/8RQTiJtR6V
Awful news on @maggiemckethan passing. A Louisiana native who loved all things Ole Miss, and did an awesome job for the past decade at @FOX26Houston. As good as she was producing, she was making a name in front of the camera with her passion for soccer. Sucks we won’t get to see…
— Chris Gordy (@ChrisGordy) February 27, 2024