Drew Soicher’s departure from Denver’s 9News at the end of 2016 marked the end of a 16-year run at the station. From his arrival in 2000 to his final broadcast in December 2016, Soicher became known for injecting humor and creativity into the sports desk—but his unconventional style was increasingly at odds with evolving viewer expectations and station strategy.
1. A Non‑Traditional Style That Stood Out
Soicher built his brand around playful, offbeat segments—remember “Drew or False,” “Drew’s Clues,” or weekly appearances with Nick the sea lion? He often prioritized entertainment over game highlights, offering quirky features rather than a traditional sports recap. While this approach drew attention—and even earned him a strong Q‑rating among some audiences—traditional sports enthusiasts argued it lacked substance.
2. Diverging Station Strategy and Budget Pressures
In February 2017, 9News President Steve Carter revealed the station was shifting its sports coverage strategy. With viewers able to instantly access scores and highlights via smartphones and social media, the traditional end-of-show sports block was less effective. Carter explained:
“We realized that we can take the two and a half or three minutes we saved for sports and spread it across the entire broadcast”.
This strategy reflected broader industry pressures—shrinking news budgets and competition from online outlets were prompting local networks to reframe how—and when—they handled sports segments.
3. Ratings, Audience Reception & Internal Pressure
Not everyone appreciated Soicher’s eccentric style. According to a South Stands Denver report, internal sources alleged that sports fans were tuning out 9News in favor of rival CBS4, which boasted traditional sports coverage from respected anchors like Vic Lombardi and Tom Helmer.
Digesting this feedback, management reportedly concluded that Soicher’s entertainment-focused shtick was alienating core sports audiences and affecting team morale—some staff reportedly threatened to leave unless change occurred .
4. Behind‑the‑Scenes: Firing or Quiet Departure?
Official statements from 9News described Soicher’s exit as a mutual separation; no details were given, and he was simply thanked for his unique contributions . But leaked reports painted a different picture. South Stands Denver claimed he was fired around April 2016, following a closed-door meeting in which he was informed his services were no longer needed—exiting dramatically in his signature gold Pontiac Aztek.
5. Career After 9News: A Phoenix Reboot
Post-9News, Soicher didn’t hang up his headset. He landed a role at KPNX in Phoenix, reinforcing his brand as a sports personality with a flair for entertainment . His departure sparked both concern over the diminishing role of sports in local TV and admiration for his ability to reinvent himself in a new market.
6. The Broader Impact on Local TV Sports
Soicher’s exit coincided with a growing trend: local TV news moving away from full sports blocks. With audience drop-off evident after weather segments and viewers relying on digital sources for real-time sports news, stations have either integrated their sports coverage across newscasts or cut it back entirely .
In Denver, 9News executives believed Soicher’s unique entertainment slant crossed the line—sacrificing credibility in pursuit of novelty. That tension between traditional reporting and comedic flair often defines local anchors’ careers in the digital age.
7. Audience Reaction: Mixed Reviews
Fans were divided. Some appreciated Soicher’s offbeat humor, but critics—especially sports fans—found his segments superficial and ill-informed. Critics cited numerous mistakes (e.g., confusing Jack Del Rio’s coaching history) and socially insensitive comments, such as an ill-received tweet about a Bronco’s Alzheimer’s.
Within the newsroom, an increasing volume of negative feedback reportedly led to internal unrest. Many staffers felt Soicher’s bits undermined the station’s sports credibility—perhaps prompting the decision to move on .
8. Why It Matters Today
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Evolution of news consumption: The shift away from Soicher highlights how real-time digital platforms are reshaping local TV strategy, making some traditional segments obsolete.
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Brand vs. substance: Local anchors must balance personal style with journalistic integrity—a delicate balance Soicher struggled to maintain.
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Industry pressures: Budgets and ratings drive decision-making. 9News’ pivot reflects the need to adapt to viewer preferences and competitive threats.
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Conclusion
Drew Soicher’s exit from 9News was more than the departure of a colorful personality. It encapsulated the challenges facing local journalism: dwindling budgets, changing consumption habits, and the tension between entertainment and substance.
Soicher brought creativity and humor—but for a market shifting toward digital immediacy and traditional reporting, his departure was both symbolic and strategic. His move to Phoenix demonstrates resilience, yet Denver’s decision illustrates a broader trend: local news is evolving, and anchors must evolve with it—or be left behind.
