Frank Billingsley announced he is leaving his position as chief meteorologist at KPRC 2, where he has been since February 1995, effective June 28, 2024.
UPDATE NOVEMBER 2024
Billingsley joins Houston Public Media
UPDATE JUNE 24, 2024
Anthony Yanez takes over for Frank Billingsley
UPDATE
KPRC 2 loses 12 staffers in buyouts
UPDATE
News director Bernice Kearney leaves KPRC 2 Houston
"It has been an incredible honor and privilege to serve the Houston community as a meteorologist for more than 30 years," Billingsley said in a statement. "I am forever grateful to the viewers who have trusted me to deliver the forecast and for the unwavering support they have shown throughout my career. I thank all of you Houston for your love."
“I'm going to take a break and see what it's like not to wear a suit five days a week!” Billingsley also told CultureMap's Ken Hoffman.
It all started on September 22, 1982, as the Washington and Lee University grad joined WDBJ 7 Roanoke, Virginia.
That was followed by WLOX 13 Biloxi, Mississippi, starting in 1987.
Houston called, and Billingsley hit the airwaves at abc13 KTRK on April 22, 1989, as a weekend meteorologist.
Throughout his remarkable career, Billingsley has received recognition from Texas Associated Press Broadcasters on seven occasions, been honored by The Houston Press Club, and earned the title of “Ultimate Weatherman” by the Houston Chronicle.
Beyond his work at the KPRC 2, Billingsley penned the book "Swabbed & Found" in 2017, chronicling his DNA journey to locate his biological family.
He triumphed over prostate cancer in 2018 after an eight-month battle.
Billingsley celebrated a personal milestone in 2012 when he married his longtime partner, Kevin Gilliard. Their joy was further amplified with the arrival of their son, Morgan.
"I’m honored to have learned so much from KPRC2 Frank Billingsley for all these years. My mentor and more importantly, my friend," mid-day meteorologist Justin Stapleton posted.
"I've had the honor & pleasure of working with Frank for nearly 12 years and I can tell you he is one of the best to ever do it," anchor Keith Garvin posted. "Not many have been able to blend the knowledge, talent, style, & personality together as well as Frank."
"Frank Billingsley is a true icon in the world of broadcast," said Phil Lane, KPRC 2 General Manager. "His contributions to our station and the Houston community are immeasurable. While we will miss his presence on our newscasts, we celebrate his remarkable career and wish him all the best in his well-deserved retirement."
