PORTLAND, Ore. — One of Portland’s most recognizable broadcast journalists, Jeff Gianola, has officially begun his farewell tour, meeting with viewers and fans as he prepares to retire from KOIN 6 News later this fall.
A Career Spanning Decades
Gianola, who announced his retirement earlier this year, has been a fixture in Portland television for more than three decades. Known for his steady presence at the anchor desk and his signature warmth, he has covered some of the region’s biggest stories, from political shifts and natural disasters to human-interest pieces that resonated deeply with local audiences.
Generations of Portlanders have grown up with Gianola as a trusted voice in their living rooms. His colleagues describe him as both a consummate professional and a mentor who shaped the newsroom culture at KOIN 6.
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Meeting Fans in Beaverton
On Thursday, Gianola greeted community members during a stop at the BG Food Cartel in Beaverton, the first public event of his farewell tour. The gathering gave fans the chance to meet him in person, share memories, and thank him for his years of service.
“You will be missed,” one longtime viewer told him while posing for a photo. Others echoed similar sentiments, recalling how Gianola’s broadcasts became part of their daily routines.
KOIN 6 captured video of the event, showing Gianola laughing with families, shaking hands with supporters, and posing for selfies — a reminder of the connection he has built with the community over the years.
A Farewell Tour with Heart
The farewell tour is expected to include additional stops in the Portland metro area, giving more viewers the opportunity to say goodbye before Gianola’s final sign-off. KOIN 6 has promised a series of retrospectives and special segments highlighting his career, which will air in the weeks leading up to his retirement.
For Gianola, the tour is less about goodbyes and more about gratitude. “This community has supported me my entire career,” he told attendees in Beaverton. “It means so much to see everyone in person and thank them.”
Remembered for More Than the News
Beyond anchoring, Gianola is remembered for his community involvement. Over the years, he has hosted charity events, moderated civic forums, and supported organizations that address issues like housing and education.
His approachability and humor have also been hallmarks of his on-air personality. Colleagues say those qualities allowed him to connect with audiences not only as a journalist but also as a neighbor.
Looking Ahead
KOIN 6 has not yet announced who will take over Gianola’s role at the anchor desk, but the station has emphasized that his retirement will be celebrated with the same dedication he has shown viewers.
While Gianola has not revealed specific post-retirement plans, he has hinted that he looks forward to more time with family and pursuing personal projects away from the demands of nightly broadcasts.
A Lasting Legacy
As his farewell tour begins, viewers are reflecting on the impact Gianola has had on Portland journalism. For many, he represents both trust and continuity in a rapidly changing media landscape.
His final newscast later this fall will mark the end of an era — and the start of a well-deserved new chapter for one of Portland’s most respected broadcasters.
