Deborah Knapp is retiring from San Antonio CBS affiliate KENS after almost 50 years.

Knapp is set to step down as a 5 p.m. anchor in 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.”

Knapp started her career in 1977 as a “weekend weather girl” at KSAT in San Antonio. One year later, she was hired as weekend anchor at KENS, eventually co-anchoring the 5 p.m. newscast with Fred Lozano. She then moved to Philadelphia in 1980 to work at WCAU as an evening anchor. She returned to KENS in 1987.

“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.”

“Working with Deb has been an absolute pleasure,” said news director Jack Acosta. “She’s been a mentor to so many in our newsroom and a trusted colleague every step of the way.”