Jackson, Mississippi ABC affiliate WAPT is making changes to its weekday morning and weekday evening news teams.

Starting Wednesday, November 20, anchor Allie Ware rejoins the weekday morning news team after leaving in 2021.

On Monday, December 2, weekday morning anchor Erin Pickens moves to the evening news team, co-anchoring the 5 p.m. newscast with Megan West and solo anchoring the 9 p.m. newscast on MeTV Jackson. Joe Cook, 16 WAPT’s evening sports director, joins Ware on the morning news desk.

The shifts occur as morning anchor Cecil Hannibal leaves for a role at Hearst’s KCRA in California.

“These changes are designed to bolster our news coverage with established talent delivering reliable news to our viewers,” said general manager Peter Keith. “Erin, Joe, and Allie maintain a deep connection with our audience, ensuring continued trust and engagement.”

“We’re thrilled about these shifts,” said news director Lee Neely. “Our ability to deliver accurate, timely news is strengthened by the passion and professionalism of Erin, Joe, and Allie. Viewers can look forward to a dynamic and engaging news experience.”