Melanie Lawson was back anchoring on the ABC13 KTRK Houston anchor desk today on the 11am newscast with Jeff Ehling and meteorologist Rachel Briers.
Special thanks to all of Lawson's loyal viewers who immediately contacted me about her return.
UPDATE
Here is the transcript with Lawson's opening remarks at the beginning of the June 26, 2025, ABC13 Eyewitness News at 11am newscast:
"And I'm Melanie Lawson. It's been so long since I've said that it took me a second there, but it's been a while since I've had the pleasure of saying those words, I have to say, it is so good to be back with you, Jeff and Rachel, and it's wonderful to be back with all of you.
Of course, we've got a lot of news to get to this morning, and I will get right to that, but I wanted to start by saying thank you. Over the last few months, I've been overwhelmed by your kindness. I've gotten so many lovely messages and well wishes from so many of you and I can't tell you how much it has meant to me.
I am so blessed to have grown up here and to still call this city, my home, and despite the crazy weather which we'll be telling you about from flooding, to freezing, to sweltering, and all kinds of strange critters, there is no better place to live than Houston.
You've been part of my family here at ABC 13 for decades and family sticks together no matter what.
All of your words of warmth, kindness and concern have reminded me over and over again about our city's giant heart and they have been absolutely amazing! So, as I said, I'm so thrilled to be back home with you back in this chair back with you, Jeff and Rachel, and bringing you all the important news you expect from us here at ABC 13.
So let's get right to the news."
"Just want to say, it's great to see you back where you belong," Ehling added.
"Oh well, thank you so much, Jeff. I love the fact that my first day is with you, buddy," Lawson replied.
"So proud to be by your side," Ehling said.
"And Mel, it is so nice to see our Queen back on her throne here," added Briers. "We have missed you so much here on the 11. And I'm so glad to have you back."
Lawson, who had been off since last spring 2024, recently interviewed Beyoncé's mother Tina Knowles.
The legendary Channel 13 anchor had been away due to reported foot issues, and after the death of her father and pillar of the community, Reverend William A. Lawson.
A few years ago, the longtime Live at Five anchor celebrated 40 years with KTRK.
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