WFOR-TV: The Evolution of CBS News Miami
In the competitive landscape of South Florida broadcasting, few stations have a history as dynamic as WFOR-TV. Known today as CBS News Miami, the station has undergone significant transformations in branding, frequency, and ownership to become a cornerstone of news and entertainment for the Miami-Fort Lauderdale market.
From its early days as an independent outlet to its current status as a CBS owned-and-operated (O&O) station—meaning it is owned directly by the network it affiliates with—WFOR-TV has mirrored the growth and complexity of the city it serves.
Key Facts
- Current Branding: CBS Miami / CBS News Miami
- Virtual Channel: 4
- Digital Channel: 22 (UHF)
- First Air Date: September 20, 1967
- Ownership: CBS News and Stations (CBS Television Stations Inc.)
- Sister Station: WBFS-TV
The Early Years: From WCIX to CBS
The station first entered the airwaves on September 20, 1967, under the call sign WCIX-TV. For nearly two decades, it operated primarily as an independent station, carving out a niche in the Miami market. During the mid-1980s, it briefly served as a Fox affiliate from 1986 to 1988.
A pivotal shift occurred in August 1988 when CBS purchased the station for $59 million. This acquisition was part of a strategic move by the network to own its presence in the growing South Florida market. Following the purchase, the station introduced new branding to align with its network parent.
The Transition to Channel 4
For much of its early history, the station operated on analog channel 6. However, in a significant technical and branding shift in 1995, the station moved to channel 4 and changed its call sign to WFOR-TV. The new call sign was a direct reference to its new position as "Channel 4."
Technical Infrastructure and Operations
WFOR-TV operates with a powerful technical setup to ensure coverage across the Miami-Fort Lauderdale region. Its transmitter is located in Andover, Florida, utilizing an Effective Radiated Power (ERP) of 1,000 kW and a Height Above Average Terrain (HAAT) of 296.9 meters (974 feet).
The station utilizes digital multiplexing, allowing it to broadcast several subchannels alongside its primary CBS programming.
| Channel | Resolution | Programming |
|---|---|---|
| 4.1 | 1080i | CBS (WFOR-TV) |
| 4.2 | 480i | Start TV |
| 4.3 | 480i | Dabl |
| 4.4 | 480i | Outlaw |
| 4.5 | 480i | Catchy Comedy |
News Operation and Notable Talent
The station's news department has been home to numerous seasoned journalists and broadcasters. Over the years, WFOR has evolved its news delivery, moving from the early "Action News" format to the modern integrated approach of CBS News Miami.
Notable figures who have contributed to the station's legacy include John Roberts (known as J.D. Roberts during his tenure from 1989 to 1990) and various anchors and reporters who have since moved into prominent national or local roles.
Current and Former Staff
The current news team includes veteran anchor Jim Berry, sports anchor Steve Goldstein, and morning co-anchor Betty Nguyen. The station's history is also marked by the contributions of former staff members such as Ken Rosato, Katie Phang, and Jennifer Santiago.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the call sign WFOR stand for?
The call sign WFOR was adopted in 1995 to reflect the station's move to channel 4, essentially serving as a phonetic play on "For" and "Four."
Who owns WFOR-TV?
WFOR-TV is owned and operated by CBS News and Stations, a division of CBS Television Stations Inc.
What was the station's original call sign?
The station originally launched as WCIX-TV in 1967 before transitioning to WFOR-TV in 1995.
Which other station is a sister station to WFOR-TV?
WBFS-TV is the sister station to WFOR-TV in the Miami market.
Where is the WFOR-TV transmitter located?
The station's transmitter is located in Andover, Florida.