FOX13 Memphis lets go of reporter Rob Sneed, and viewers are questioning the timing

Sneed says the station attributed his departure to revenue concerns, but the announcement comes days after his exchange with Tennessee Gov.-elect Marsha Blackburn, prompting speculation online.

FOX13 Memphis reporter Rob Sneed is speaking out after being let go from his freelance anchor and reporting position, a decision that has prompted questions from viewers following his recent exchange with Tennessee Gov.-elect Marsha Blackburn.

In a social media statement, Sneed announced that FOX13 management informed him of the decision on Nov. 5, saying the station attributed it to financial considerations.

“I did not know this was coming,” Sneed wrote. “I was told the decision ultimately came down to the station’s revenue.”

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The departure comes days after Sneed questioned Blackburn about how she plans to serve Black Tennesseans following her historic gubernatorial victory. As FOX13 reported in its coverage of Blackburn’s election-night remarks, the Republican said she wanted to work with residents across the state.

During the exchange, Sneed asked, “How are you going to be able to help the Black American community?” When Blackburn responded that she hoped members of the community would work with her, Sneed followed up with a simple question: “How?”

Blackburn subsequently pointed to issues including maternal health and education, adding that Black Tennesseans would find her administration’s door open.

As Atlanta Black Star reported, the timing of Sneed’s departure has prompted speculation online about whether the two events are connected. 

A FOX13 representative reportedly told the publication Unapologetically Memphis that Sneed’s departure was an HR matter and declined further comment. A source familiar with the situation also reportedly told the outlet that the decision involved a private matter unrelated to his exchange with Blackburn.

In his statement, Sneed reflected on his experience in Memphis, saying he accepted the opportunity after spending a year away from television news and taking a position for significantly less than his experience warranted.

“I wasn’t chasing a paycheck. I was chasing a second chance,” he wrote.

Despite the unexpected departure, Sneed expressed gratitude to viewers who welcomed him into their homes and reaffirmed his commitment to his career.

He also made clear that he is open to opportunities in television news, communications and public relations.

“My story is far from over,” Sneed wrote.