PORTLAND, Ore. – Portland television is preparing to say goodbye to one of its most familiar faces. After nearly four decades on the air, Steve Dunn, longtime anchor at KATU, will step down in mid-December, the station announced Tuesday.
Not Calling It “Retirement”
Though KATU described his departure as retirement, Dunn offered a different perspective in his own statement.
“This is not retirement for me,” he said. “I am exploring different options in areas that I’m extra passionate about. And no, I will not be a lounge singer.”
While he may be leaving the anchor desk, Dunn hinted that he remains open to pursuing new ventures—and perhaps even occasional appearances on KATU.
A Career That Spanned Nearly 40 Years
Dunn’s broadcast career began long before he became a household name in Oregon. He arrived at KATU in 1986, having previously worked in Arizona and Michigan. Over the decades, he became one of the most recognized and respected figures in Portland television news.
During his time at KATU, Dunn earned nine Emmy Award nominations and won the Emmy for Top News Anchor in the Northwest four times. His steady presence and credibility helped shape KATU’s newsroom through decades of breaking news, political changes, and community stories.
Life Beyond the Anchor Desk
Dunn is also well known for his love of golf. In addition to participating in numerous charity tournaments, he created his own annual event called “Dunns’ Duffers.” The tournament has raised funds and awareness for charitable causes while allowing Dunn to share one of his passions with the community.
KATU noted that golf may play a larger role in his next chapter, though Dunn himself has remained noncommittal about what comes next.
Hinting at Future Projects
Even as he prepares to step down, Dunn left the door open to future appearances on Portland television.
“You never know,” he said. “You might see me on some special projects here at KATU once in a while.”
His departure will mark a significant change for viewers who have relied on his presence for decades, but his comments suggest he may not disappear from local screens entirely.
A Season of Change in Portland News
Dunn’s announcement comes shortly after another Portland news icon shared similar plans. In July, Jeff Gianola, longtime anchor at KOIN-TV, announced he would retire later this year after more than 40 years in broadcasting.
Together, the two retirements represent the end of an era for Portland television, as stations prepare to transition into a new generation of anchors and journalists.
A Legacy of Trust and Dedication
For many in the Portland area, Dunn’s voice and reporting have been a consistent part of their daily lives for nearly four decades. His decision to step away from the anchor desk reflects not only the close of a remarkable career but also the promise of new beginnings.
Whether his next steps involve golf tournaments, new projects in media, or occasional guest appearances, Dunn leaves behind a legacy of professionalism, passion, and trust built with viewers across the Northwest.
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