Why did CTV cut Lisa LaFlamme? Here’s the inside story

Canadians are still in shock and desperate for answers about why CTV abruptly dropped its national anchor, Lisa LaFlamme. CTV’s parent company released a press release pointing to a “change in viewer habits”, sparking people to accuse the network of cost-cutting and even ageism and sexism. Today, Brandon shares some inside knowledge about why this move by CTV head Michael Melling is so significant, sloppy, and extremely unprecedented. How do you feel about the way CTV handled Lisa LaFlamme?
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[@lizmontilla1985]

Oh Brandon - what an amazing breakdown of what has transpired. I hope you cover more on this, I feel like you just scratched the surface. Congrats to you for leaving such a toxic environment and letting your talents shine elsewhere, you're way better off!

[@michaelpark5681]

Every workplace is a 'toxic environment' where you don't get what you want. Lol.

[@chiccabonita6269]

@@michaelpark5681 that’s why he made his own news channel. So he has control. And he’s doing amazing things with that control. Have a blessed day

[@rob7509]

I agree 🙏He did an amazing breakdown of what transpired👍

[@kmilford100]

The underlining thread through this is that many white, middle-aged men are assholes. Big surprise.

[@MeanOldBastardBikerBob]

ya just like canada am ?? how many years was that on?? i watched you brandon you were great ,a good role model,,PEACE

[@annieo9468]

What a classy woman. Screw CTV news. You've shown who you are. I'm glad they did...because they're telling us outright, they lack integrity...and most companies aren't as transparent about that. Thank-you Lisa...for your years of work...your undying devotion in bringing us news we felt we could trust. Once a company decides it's all about superficial presentation...you might as well just shut it down. I have.

[@lylesmith8632]

It's sad they let her go. I don't watch that news channel no more. When I found out she was not there no more. And the reason she gone. I just can't watch that channel no more. She had class. CTV lost a good person.

[@davehartin9584]

Well that does it many people including myself, will not watch your station because we love Lisa, she has been a solid reporter on TV and has still many years that she could give us top news reporting! What a mistake she will be picked up by someone else but that doesn't satisfy me your station is making a big big mistake!

[@pauletteboileau158]

I'm so sorry this happened to Lisa, her video shows how much of a class act she really is. I'm really shocked this happened like this 😕

[@katherinehunter9526]

Please write Bell and CTV about your displeasure! Even Boycott them both, until Lisa Laflamme is reinstated to her position! Thank you!

[@eddieharcourt6049]

Puh-lease! There's a much bigger story at play here. Lisa will be just fine, but she fucked up. You'll see.

[@eddieharcourt6049]

@@katherinehunter9526 Boycott?? Good luck with that!! Lol!

[@chris_schenkel]

Ya. Public whining is so classy. Good riddance!

[@ronrocheleau6303]

I was so sad to see what they did to Lisa. Morals have gone out the window at CTV and Bell MediA. She gave so many years to this network and what a slap in the face. Totally wrong on so many levels

[@rhphotocdn]

CTV can’t tell/won’t tell their viewers the truth about the news, so how can they expect to do anything different with their employees?

[@jamesstuart3346]

So enlighten us as to who "tells the truth about the news"

[@Morpheen999]

@@jamesstuart3346 Its SUPER simple.. Any News network that doesn't take a dime from the government As soon as a network takes money from the government what they report on is bought and paid for..

[@jamesstuart3346]

@@Morpheen999 Private broadcasters like CTV make their money off advertising by large corporations who determine what you see

[@Morpheen999]

@@jamesstuart3346 CTV has received at least $122 million in federal wage subsidies.. That still counts as taking Government money.. If you want media to be unbiased they can't take a lick from the government.. or they have something to lose

[@jamesstuart3346]

@@Morpheen999 CTV's annual revenue is $241 million. Most of it comes from corporate advertising

[@D_A_Marv]

That's thorough reporting! The secretive way this was done is telling of the new management at CTV.

[@janeburton7647]

Thank you for this info video, Brandon. It’s a great loss in the news world to no longer have Lisa as the head newscaster. It was a very underhanded act allowed by Bell and the CTV executive. Wish Lisa the best in her future endeavours. PS: I no longer look forward to the National now that she is gone. It was my highlight of the evening for all those years since Loyd Robertson retired. Au revoir Lisa. 🌹🌹

[@roberthatchard4276]

Disgusting, shame on Bell. A cultural icon treated like this! All the best Lisa, you deserved better. Goodbye Bell, CTV and your other products.

[@arricammarques1955]

People don't leave jobs, they leave bad management. Wretched industry, regardless.

[@joyfulrealtor]

She was let go. She have loved it there to remain so long and now being upset about departure. Could not have been that bad.

[@sizzurpr7608]

She didn't leave. She was fired. 😵

[@LeeAnneG]

My last employer was THE worst managed firm in all my 40 year career. I left some lovely people that I typed for.

[@bassbeauty]

Lisa was not always following the Bell Media rules. And that was, never any negatively about Trudope and Liberals.

[@itsolivier]

@@sizzurpr7608 how long do you think a female anchor has the right to remain... i mean male anchors get fired to ... so where is the sexism they are speaking of

[@CommonSenseSisters]

Thank you for breaking this down Brandon!!! You and your team are doing a great job delivering authentic news to the people!!! You are our go too news anchor 👏

[@user-kh5qh3pr4y]

I have watched CTV news with Lisa for years. She is a polished very professional journalist that always delivered the news with such class. They say when men turn grey they look distinguished… when women turn grey they just look old! How terribly insulting . Lisa is a most attractive women. I think what happened to her and the way she was let go and treated was disgraceful. Shame on CTV ! Lisa I hope you are much better appreciated with another company who respects you and would be very fortunate to have you work for them ! LG

[@k.dickie8972]

Haven't been a watcher of MSM news for some time now, but Lisa LaFlamme was of interest since my wife went to grade school with her. I may not have always agreed with Lisa's politics, but she seemed to be an honest and caring person. Sadly not surprising that internal politics would be the cause of her removal. Just puts CTV even further into the trash bin of MSM/government propaganda. Thanks for the update Brandon

[@AC-ff1cn]

Jesus Christ, you're insufferable.

[@squidwardshouse67]

There is no government propaganda just because you don’t like the news doesn’t make it so. Truth hurts sometimes.

[@shelbylou02]

@@squidwardshouse67 How about some honest reporting from CTV? MSM does not report honestly they pick and choose what they report.

[@MsAdrieGurl]

Messy....another reason why I'm not a fan of these big media corporations. 😒 Great reporting BG!!!!

[@wunderinwyndfeatherakaskje8872]

They will suffer from doing this to Lisa... Our hearts are with her... may she fight for her rights! 💕💃🏻🇨🇦

[@savitrifrancis1232]

What a disgustingly shameful way to treat an employee of 35 years.

[@remixed8079]

I’m not a Bell customer and now, I don’t think I’ll watch CTV anymore either……..I’m not supporting the direction society is taking. This should never have happened, for all the people that knew it was coming to this, and did nothing to stop this injustice……..

[@Selasi_]

Can count on Brandon to give us a breakdown. The Canadian news/journalism world seems so insular

[@mikekoz6351]

Lets go Brandon

[@AidaJof]

Thank you Brandon for a very good report on CTV's summarily dismissal of Lisa LaFlamme ... to say that I am outraged at the callous way they managed this is putting it mildly. I will no longer be watching CTV which was my go-to-network for the news because of Ms LaFlamme's professionalism as a true journalist.

[@AidaJof]

@@katherinehunter9526 I have ... way before your patronizing advice. Thank you.

[@katherinehunter9526]

@@AidaJof Sorry if you felt I was patronizing. I was trying to start a letter writing campaign. My apologies for leaving you a message. Peace and Love be with you AidaJof!

[@bernadinelinton348]

Brandon, I congratulate you for your decision to move on to your own show. I am also happy for your coverage of this event because viewing the news lately a few hosts seem to disappear without explanation. This is truly how businesses are not transparent in decisions which ultimately affect many. I did wonder where did they go. Thank you and I wish you continued success.

[@stereoheadmtl5944]

The wrong person seems to have had an early departure. Hopefully this backfires badly! And hands off our CTV/MTL Mitsumi Takahashi! Aging female journalists (50's is no longer old!) have just as much gravitasse; if not more; than their male counterparts. Lisa should be returned with apologies rendered. Not even a proper farewell says a lot.

[@craigmccracken3104]

Legacy media doesn't have much in the way of credibility anymore. All anchors do is read what they are told to these days. Ratings go down heads can roll not nice but reality for most people in the world.

[@Wolframandheart]

How is Brandon getting better news scoops then these major companies??

[@freddycalipari4242]

Cause he no longer works for them.

[@catregime]

Choices

[@Marlon-fv3rj]

He is not main stream media.. Doesn't have to follow the narrative.

[@mirandastevens286]

He worked with them

[@Popsfresh]

Nothing new here or juicy. All the stuff can be found on Twitter already

[@Ahmiseysoh75]

Thank you, Brandon for this clear breakdown of the story. You are a truly outstanding journalist.

[@defconone1498]

This reminds me of when CTV (Bell Media) axed the CTV Morning Show from one day to the next. Replaced it with Mulroney & co. Never watched CTV again and disconnected Bell from my house. Axing Lisa Laflamme is no surprise and very consistent with corporate decision making. Your analysis sounds bang on to me but the corporate boardrooms never admit to such.

[@propheteyebert7063]

Who watches these propaganda outlets theses days. Didn't know they were still on the air.

[@kelp4est]

The legacy media is the enemy of the people. They repeat the lies of our fascist establishment elites.

[@markcarew6724]

I was shocked when Tom Brown and Anwar Knight were dropped from the CTV evening newscast a few years ago. Not a word on their dismissal at the time, and a year after the flowery retirement of Ken Shaw.

[@saintejeannedarc9460]

So much for the sexism theory theory. Seems to be pretty random how they treat people on the surface. There has to be other things going on behind the scenes we don't get to know about.

[@johnvaudry9201]

I'm appalled at the fact that Lisa Laflamme was fired and by the way in which it was done. From where I sit, 58 seems rather young! She was still classy and professional, and it's hard to understand what real reason there could be to get rid of her. This was a foolish decision that will undoubtedly hurt CTV and Bell. Sounds like she spoke to truth to power and paid the price.

[@nan7503]

Maybe Global is looking for a great and professional news anchor to take top spot!

[@jasperian12]

Thank you Brandon for providing us with an update. It's funny because I immediately figured it was something along that line. I personally will no longer watch CTV period. Lisa Laflamme who is such a well respected anchor and loved by so many was treated in such a disrespectful way without even providing her with a proper way to announce her departure. She needed to announce it herself through her social media. Bell Media and this Michael Melling just made many women very angry. I personally will not be watching anything CTV and I will be sharing this video with as many people I can in support of Lisa Laflamme. Michael Melling karma is real.

[@hume6900]

My father went through something similar in a different industry. He was promoted within the company he worked for which necessitated a move to a new city. What he wasn’t told at the time was that the company was actively looking to sell the new location. Three weeks after Dad moved the family to the new location he was told after a certain date he would either no longer have a job or be demoted, as they had sold that branch and the new owners were going to bring in their own body. Dad told them to take the job. He was not allowed to say anything to his fellow employees, until the new owners were ready. All of this is to say a new broom sweeps clean. In this case the new broom is the C.E.O. or whatever his title is. It does not make it right, it just how some things happen. I also would not be surprised to find sexism or ageism involved.

[@tonysopranosduck416]

I’m so sorry that your dad and family went through that, it’s traumatic for everyone. I know, because my husband was terminated after 16 years with a company, after helping build it from the ground up. He was the first employee to be hired and was chased by his employer after all his potential clients highly recommended my husband as a superintendent. My husband had a major heart operation and 5 days after the operation, still on medical leave (he took his holidays at the same time so as not to be too disruptive to the company), the slimy VP (who is now also fired lol) called him in for a meeting and terminated him. 3 weeks before Christmas . He was told blatantly, “we can hire 2-3 younger guys for the same price as you and they are healthier “. Employers are douchebags and (eventually) only care about money and profits. The old guard of employers are in for rough ride though because the new generation of workers are not nearly as blind, selfless and devoted and will not give their entire life’s energy, at the sacrifice of family and personal health to a job. …..I hope your dad has found himself in a more grateful position in life as I’m sure he has, with such a supportive and loving family.

[@skapsha]

@Tony. of course it is water under the bridge now but it is against the law to do that to someone such as your husband .Hopefully you got a good settlement. You should publish the company, but if people know how companies treat good people badly, then good people should treat the company as bad.

[@corenaking2984]

Marion Hume Yes a new broom sweeps clean but it takes an old broom to get into the corners

[@hume6900]

@@corenaking2984, I agrée wholeheartedly with you. I really liked the way Ms. Laflamme presented the news.

[@barryhaley7430]

How do you humorous ageism, sexism or any other ism. The article concludes that he didn’t renew her contract to increase his control. It was about power. He feared her power. Would have been no different if it had be a white male.

[@conniefudge189]

I stopped watching main stream news almost 2 years now “ fake news “ , so nice to see you again Brandon🙂

[@squidwardshouse67]

It’s only fake to you because you don’t like it 🤣🤣🤣

[@nshaHC]

I love how Brandon has been growing his viewership...great job to a genuine guy!

[@lynnroney1234]

I was shocked when I heard about this. She was the face of the news in Canada. Now I have an answer as to what went on at CTV Toronto. The loss of Lance Brown (miss the Christmas music newscast), Tom Brown and Anwar Knight was very upsetting. Millings was apparently unaware they were audience favourites. He wants to take CTV news in a different direction. The direction was going just fine. I feel bad for Omar, who is a very capable journalist, but to have to start his new job under these storm clouds is going to be difficult. Hey Millings! Wait until you see how the viewership is going to drop now.

[@wizdom-1684]

Wonder what is Millings agenda??? To drive CTV in a hole?

[@jamesanthony5681]

What have the ratings been at CTV for the past 5 years and in comparison to the CBC? If they're high-ticket employees and ratings are dropping, then they're usually the first casualties.

[@valval3919]

Don't forget what CTV did during the ottawa protests; took all the decals off their vehicles so they wouldn't be identified on the street. The people won't forget.

[@DylanDurdle]

Why is that important? The taking off the decals protected the staff from people explicitly negatively targeting journalists. If the company was callus, they'd insist the decals stay on and the journalists deal with the risks of the job.

[@brianbenoit6883]

ummm CTV saving their employees from being attacked by a bunch of blood thirsty media hating anarchists is a bad thing....WHY?!?!?!

[@greywolf0167]

Brandon this is the first time i saw your show...Thank you for explaining this issue, because i was in awe with what was going on. If some thing can be explained in such a way that common old men like me can understand...then we feel respected not looked down on. We need truth, understanding and respect from people such as your self. Thanks again and keep up the good work.

[@greywolf0167]

i rarely suscribe maybe a hand full in past 10 yrs...i subscribed you that's how impressed i was.

[@dorothydecesare1607]

I concur

[@Teachering]

People still watch and listen to legacy media "news". Astounding.

[@liftlockcitygal]

when i first heard this news i was shocked. To be treated like that after all her years is unthinkable. She will be missed.

[@susanscovill6817]

I am thoroughly disgusted with what they have done to Lisa LaFlamme! Not only did she have the numbers, the reputation, and the integrity of content she was a staple to my news watching. CTV said goodbye to Lisa LaFlamme, I now say goodbye to CTV.

[@michaelpark5681]

Lol yea keep playing the victim card. You play the game and one wrong move and you're gonna get sniped. That's how it goes.

[@jaerockchalk3216]

integrity of content ... thanks now im choking on my cereal ... good jokes !

[@samthomas9039]

Why do you so readily defend a woman who voluntarily, willingly and knowingly worked for a highly profitable organisation that is greedily accepting our tax dollars from Justin Trudeau in subsidy? Part of her pension will come from our tax dollars. And she works for a private organisation. She wanted to continue working there. Does that speak to her level of integrity, or moral compass? Objectivity as a journalist? Did you know our tax dollars are subsidising approx 1500 private companies whose execs/owners are benefiting financially at our expense. Lisa LaFlamme knows that but did she tell Canadians? No. Why not? How can you be ok with that?

[@katherinehunter9526]

Amen!✌🙏

[@karenquehl6869]

Me too! What an appalling way to treat such an amazing anchor. I live and grew up in Kitchener. I heard Lisa speak once at the Kitchener library, as she was born here. Incredible coverage she talked about in dangerous situations. I will watch news somewhere else!

[@NikkiSoFar]

Great summary of a shocking dismissal- I hope ctv realizes it toldthis story sooo wrong and my faith in the network is no longer. Good on you Brandon for your courage to do your thing and be the boss you are!

[@MsSkupsie]

💯💯

[@michaelpark5681]

You ruffle the wrong feathers, you get terminated. Nothing new under the sun.

[@roses5197]

I heard that her replacement (Omar) has been in tight following Trudeau around.

[@leslier.2722]

she was so great and I'm sad to see her go but I'll be watching for her. CTV'S actions are deplorable.

[@donnaferguson4903]

What a great job you did breaking this CTV mess down for us to try & understand. Thank you

[@janinas.5965]

Awesome reporting Brandon! I watched Lisa LaFlamme right from the beginning when she was on CKCO news in Kitchener. I have always liked and respected her. CTV was so wrong to let her go as you can read from all the negative comments on all social media platforms. I wish Lisa the best and hope to see her again soon somewhere better.

[@jakhamar55]

She was ok up til the time of the vancouver olympics. Then she got her panties in a knot for justin castro and the rest is history. News is no longer news but a brainwashing session and if people like her had an ounce of integrity they would stand up and put a stop to this garbage they feed us. I guess if they pay you lots of money you will say anything.

[@kobiimpraim4838]

Wow. Finally a story with some substance about what happens behind the teleprompter. Thank You. Outside of those massive Bell layoffs the other day, you guys are very good a keeping the drama about our favorite media personalities disappearing out of the blue on the QT. Some insight on this type of topic was truly refreshing. Keep this kinda thing up.

[@laurasalo6160]

This isn't a story of substance. They haven't got an answer from either LaFlamme or CTV about her abrupt exit, nor have they got a theory. He just pointed out the obvious and read other's reporting that others have retired. And he made baseless accusations of sexism and ageism. Just because one tosses about -isms doesn't mean he is being deep or intelligent, or that he shed any light on the actual situation.

[@powerofloveism]

I will never believe that Robin Gill just suddenly moved on from Global either , she was likely given an ultimatum , like two of my friends who were journalists and they were told report only what your told to report verbatim or your done.

[@RobertFalconer1967]

With Lisa's prodigious experience and connections, I have every confidence she will move on to other venues, be it hosting news magazine programs for other networks, starting something of her own, or even consulting. And I hope she does. Either way I guarantee she'll land on her feet. And possibly even be happier in the long run for the autonomy it will afford her. Look no further than Liz Hayes, '60 Minutes Australia' Reporter and Host of 'Under Investigation' for Channel 9 Australia. She's 66 and going strong after 40 years in the news business. No one is putting her out to pasture on account of ageism or sexism.

[@andrabook8758]

i am sure that bell is BSing, and of course there's a flood of negativity now. she was one of the better ones. not buying their clumsy explanation, he clearly wanted to humiliate her by not even letting her sign off.

[@mariaomar7024]

This is the most disgusting way to let a loyal worker go , we are very disappointed with Michael Malling and CTV .

[@spentcasing3990]

Sounds like the classic tale of an asshole boss on a power trip getting rid of anyone who can see through their bullshit

[@thomastessier9718]

Sorry CTV and its' sponsors but I'm done viewing anything from their network.

[@annamariaferranti29]

Thank you this was really well done, like most of Canada, still in shock and disappointed over the whole thing How horrible for Mrs Laflamme. Could you imagine having to digest this horrible dismissals alone all those weeks. I hope finally being able to share her story brought her some comfort. I hope their is a proper resolve to this poor “business decision” Even Women of the highest calibre still get so discriminated . So sad😞

[@BobbyC1987]

Oh shut the fuck up with that women discrimination shit lol

[@wilnerolivier7971]

This is not the 1st time Bell has engaged in these practices!! A few years they did the same thing by getting rid of reporters/contributors at TSN which is the sports equivalent of ESPN.

[@HeleniqueToday]

thank you for shedding light on this situation. btw. i stopped watching your old show the minute you left. you were the best thing on that show. you have so much to give to the industry, brandon. your future will be bright and exciting. 📺🌟

[@kalliepmill]

I have never heard you before or knew anything about you. However, I was very impressed with your presentation and actually said to myself "He should be a news anchor". Wishing you all the best. Lisa as well.

[@wk4523]

Michael Melling should be shown the door, and Bell should do an about face, aplogize and bring back LLF

[@michaelpark5681]

If you piss off the boss, you're shown the door. She should have carried herself better instead of biting the hands that feed her.

[@dudeorduuude5211]

@@michaelpark5681 sounds like the dude is known for high turnover of staff... so it says more about him

[@agtronic]

I stopped watching MSM years ago when I started to feel what was presented on the news did not reflect what I saw out in the real world. It wasn’t a conscious decision, but it started to feel artificial and untrustworthy. I’ve grown to despise mainstream media today. And I don’t say that lightly, I actually feel bad about that. I know a lot of good people put in honest work in the business. It seems that these newsrooms are starting to eat their own, rotting from the top down. Where there is big money, there is corruption. I’m sorry Lisa Laflamme had to suffer this, I think slowly these places are going to fall apart.

[@shelbylou02]

My sister went to high school with Lisa and they graduated together.

[@elizabethgiordano4052]

Thank you Brandon for sharing all that info. Indeed all Canadians were shocked of Lisa LaFlamme’s “dismissal” something similar happened with Erin Davis working for CHFI98, then after she was hired by 97.3 The rock station and many of us switched. The rock ratings hit high and we the listeners made it happen. Later on CHFI must have made an offer hard to resist and brought Erin Davis back, the irony of this is that Mike Cooper ended up with CHFI. for many years I travel from Pickering to Brampton and I was so happy to be entertained by those irreplaceable voices. Good luck to Lisa LaFlamme with her new role at City news and the guy that fired her “age will catch up with you too”

[@samg8012]

At the end of the day, she is just another journalist that reports on what she is told to report on, what questions she is allowed to ask. Unbiased journalistic integrity is not a thing anymore.

[@don-cw1yz]

CBC /CTV are Liberal government paid media that act /report news as a Liberal party mouthpiece. The ratings for both CBC and CTV news are dropping like a stone. Who really watches the CBC or CTV news anymore? Lisa LaFlemme is probably getting a great buyout package.

[@nan7503]

And when you fight it, you get Mellinged!

[@ednas1660]

The story here would not seem to bare out your hypothesis Sam. I think she was sh*t-canned pretty much for doing the opposite of what you've described.

[@jasonwaters382]

This is a very insightful, compassionate, and helpful analysis. Thanks!

[@katiemclean9089]

As a Canadian , I and so many more Canadians do not trust ANY of our Main Stream Media any more . Not TRUE Journalism , but miss directed opinion from the FACTS . This Liberal / Left government has such a hold on the media in Canada . FACT C A McLean

[@sandran8747]

It happens to the best of us. I was let go a few years ago and replaced with a younger guy that I trained and whose family knew the bosses. I quickly went on the hunt for another job as I have 2 kids to feed. I live to see that same company almost went under a few years ago. I wish the best for all parties involved.

[@Jimbo3242]

Very gracious of you in the face of adversity. Same story for me but less positive.

[@chrisgraham2904]

"We have had to make a business decision to direct your department and your position in a different direction". This is the statement I received from my employer upon my termination in 1997. It's a legally pretty safe boiler plate statement which is used by hundreds of employers every day to protect themselves and move people out the door. If Lisa's gone from CTV News, so am I.

[@PHlophe]

i received the same letter almost word for word last month. so yup they all use a safe legally air tight template

[@shawnhunt1262]

I like CTV News better than the other option but I WON'T BE WATCHING anymore I quess it's CNN for now on

[@kessiawright1710]

You can also send an email to the moron in charge.

[@tonysopranosduck416]

@@shawnhunt1262 lol, I agree. Haven’t watched cbc in 7 yrs, since they became a one-party propaganda machine and like you, I won’t be watching any evening national news after Donna Friesen. I watch my local news and then go online to get recaps of stories that are poignant. And the benefits of online news is that we can often leave comments and hear how other Canadians are thinking. It’s refreshing to see I’m not alone in my views. Sadly, there are often news stories that don’t allow comments. It’s as though they’re afraid to hear from Canadians. Shocker.

[@toddstevens13]

@@shawnhunt1262 Oh no don't do that, ever.

[@adaoraagu6712]

Well done Brandon

[@tatjanakecman7236]

GREAT COMMENT BRANDON! THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR THE CLARITY AROUND THE ISSUE!

[@r.c.brousseau9655]

CTV did a similar “hit job” in Montreal a few years ago when they fired the entire Sports News Department. Pretty reprehensible! CTV has really dropped the ball yet again, in a most significant and unfortunate way under Bell Media’s oversight.

[@christinecamley]

Brandon your superb video helps explain what the environment was like at CTV after a major change in management. I think this is so significant. It still shocks me that Michael Melling did something so toxic. It's clear that many people have spoken out about how appalled they are that Lisa LaFlamme was treated in such disrespectful way. Ratings were excellent for CTV's national newscast and Lisa won the loyalty of so many viewers precisely because she is so amazing in her field of journalism and as a national news anchor. I think it is critical to note how loyal Lisa has been to CTV in a 35-year career. This is blatant ageism and sexism. Lisa was the CTV news and that speaks volumes. Your highly informative video has helped me get a better understanding of so much Brandon. Thank you so much! Cheers! 🙂

[@judith3218]

It is also about a tragically inferior bellend needing to surround himself with YES people, rather than permit an intelligent, competent, highly professional, much respected woman continue to excel in her profession. I hope Michael Melling soon receives a "we are moving in a different direction" email.

[@itsolivier]

True i think Lisa was an excellent broadcaster... I wouldnt said its blatant, people get fired all the time and this just happens to be a public media anchor that gets fired from a very visible role...The fact they are replacing her with a man, i do think is a little sexist... no doubt. The reality is most people who have been watching ctv for a while now are not going to be happy with this change to their habitual news journalism and if this young guy they bring it replace her with isnt superstar quality, than the change makes little to no sense.. In anchor terms, I think she was still beautiful, pretty young and intelligent.. What benefit journalistically could ctv receive by replacing such a high ranking anchor with that kind of experience with a young man, logically it doesnt make sense to, unless she says something she shouldn't have, her management felt she was to individualistic in her ideological approach to things and/ or maybe that she was to old to keep ratings... If any of these are the case, we are dealing with a problem, that is Journalism isnt supposed to be about looks or age but high quality information.. Can these replacements do it better? well see, however this is now time for Lisa Laflamme, to truly blossom without a corporate sponsor, she is now under her own umbrella and will need to enjoy her own shine of the sun without someone else telling her what to do.. Podcasts, journalism show like The young turks, their are ample opportunities in the this new media age, she simply needs to adapt to the new technologies and bring her viewers with her, ill be there.

[@jjaylad]

If this is how CTV handles their own news, I have completely lost faith in any of their reporting. In our household neither CTV National nor CTV local will be tuned again. I support any effort to promote condemnation of CTV and a nationwide boycott of them! I know it was management, not staff ...that did this, but boycotting their broadcasts and reducing their viewership may trigger their staff to influence change at that bigoted network.

[@deborahmackinnon5190]

I was heartbroken when I heard the news about Lisa LaFlamme . I’m outraged , it was disrespectful and I can only imagine how Ms. LaFlamme felt . She is one classy lady who I will miss . Bell the owners of CTV are bullies . It was not surprising how they treat their staff , it’s the same way they treat their customers . But what goes around comes around . Sadly Mr. Sachedina got caught in the crossfire . Shame shame Bell Media

[@carolbryan7494]

Great Story Brandon: I am sadden by Lisa's departure from CTV News. I have watched her for years. CTV got this so WRONG. Lisa: GREAT things are waiting for you around the corner. Much success in the future. You shall be missed.😇

[@granttuplin4523]

Understandably sad to be let go from a near lifetime job but take comfort in knowing that you are one of the few who will walk off the sinking ship of MSM. I have not watched MSM for 2 years now but wish you the best of luck and may you find your way into a truly an honerble news room.

[@joannebuckner2563]

MSM? what does that refer to? You mean CTV News owned by Bell Media?

[@granttuplin4523]

@@joannebuckner2563 main stream media such as cbc ctv global cnbc ABC etc.

[@joannebuckner2563]

@@granttuplin4523 Where do you get your local and world news from?

[@MatthewDLDavidson]

Great work and great insights. Keep up the good work.

[@Owner-ky3kb]

It's about time people start sending companies like Bell Media a message that this type of behavior is not acceptable.

[@susanelezebeth2751]

The new guy Mikey boy didnt like how Lisa spoke her mind A LOT! This was very personal and such a cheap shot like a kid trying to be the king of the hill in school. You did Lisa dirty you little weasel 👎🏻

[@s3xitequila]

This video deserves an emmy! I don't know how news is awarded but you towed many lines very artfully and managed to deliver a crystal clear narrative. Bravo!

[@kevinheatcoat2190]

I'm Glad Lisa LaFlamme's Gone Because She Was No Good For Nothing.

[@Dr.D.Evidence]

"Canadians are still in shock and desperate for answers ..." -- Yeah, right. Talk about living in a bubble, yikes.

[@sd9816]

It's not about ageism or sexism....we need to move about these topics already

[@brianblackwood5248]

Lloyd Robertson was like 300 yrs old before he left.

[@ArchFundy]

That is typical Bell's attitude towards its employees. Buy a company. Fire a bunch of ppl, esp middle management. I worked at The Source when Bell bought it out. IMO, they are a horrible company to work for.

[@eighteenin78]

Horrible company to be a customer of as well.

[@krisskross8985]

Shares in Bell should drop that will teach them!

[@nikkibuckler5906]

That was excellent Brandon, I could listen to you all day, you should be an anchor for the news.

[@anaalvez5950]

Brandon you are amazing! I always liked you ever since I saw you as a weather man, I am so glad you got yourself out of such toxic environment! I will not be watching CTV News anytime soon. Keep at it you will succeed!

[@myronmadey3040]

The network is insane to let Lisa go! Ratings will go down.

[@toddstevens13]

They do not care if the rating go down, they want "Their" viewpoint and only their viewpoint, and Lisa just didn't budge, so she had to go.

[@AndreAnthony]

I was shocked by this! Maybe that new boss needs to be let go.

[@cdnbearguy]

might happen sooner than he thinks...Mr. Melling that is.

[@sheilalarcher4137]

No maybe about it!

[@sheilaghbrosky4150]

Let's bring in a snotty nosed twerp who will run the business into the ground and set walks off with bags of money.

[@mercuryangel9223]

I love Lisa and watched the news, solely because of her reporting. Won't be turning in to this any longer! Lisa is a gold standard employee! #Boycottforlisa

[@raymonko]

Thank you for providing context. This was very useful and I wondered a lot about the backend analysis.

[@JohnDoe-gn5bc]

Brandon, it is my opinion that you captured my feelings exactly (6:10); I am offended by how Lisa LaFlamme's dismissal was handled. I have been a loyal CTV news watcher for nearly two decades (both National and local) but immediately changed my loyalty to another news provider after viewing Lisa's youtube video on August 15, 2022. Lisa's untimely dismissal was the final straw for me and CTV; I struggled to understand why my local CTV morning team (Stacey Brotzel and Rob Williams, CTV Edmonton) were quietly removed and replaced in September 2020. I am only one viewer, I'm positive that my loyalty shift will make no difference to to Bell Media's bottom line but maybe I'm not alone and other's are feeling the same way.

[@a.a.p3254]

Excellent reporting Blessing to Lisa La Flamme a new better opportunity awaits. I notice the same thing on BNN a whole bunch of new anchors when the old ones brought had so much class and style. Not Impressed at all with Bell media. Cheers 🇨🇦

[@tigremoreno]

First time I seen you Brandon, great report , I loved watching Lisa every night I hope she gets the real truth, I was also let go at 58 by powerful people and I was told not to talk about it, until today I ended up with no references and no one will tell tell me why I was dismissed by the new building manager who I refused to play his games. Until today I haven’t find a job nobody wants to hire older people , it’s not easy, is very sad. I feel for you Lisa and I wish you someone out there hire you and appreciate you. 😍🏳️‍🌈💖

[@Blakpepa]

Well done breakdown on the situation! CTV national news was number one so it makes absolutely no sense to boot out someone who has a stellar reputation globally as a journalist. Bell as a company is wrath with toxic leadership who will terminate you if you question anything. The good thing for Lisa is she has such a stellar reputation she could easily just do a Jordan Peterson and create a podcast and youtube channel with full control. She doesn't need ctv. Viewers are tired of the bs and will tune out in droves. She'll have no problems recruiting a team and taking their Viewers. Best of luck to her

[@dougwristen2228]

meller will be the next executive to be fired when the highest rated news show tanks because of poor ratings and extremely much less viewership. wait till the ratings come in , and meller should start packing up his office. some executives make some pretty bad decisions , but this one is going to bite the network , but even meller harder , cause he will be the one looking for a new job , and ctv is going to struggle gaining any trust back from former viewers. highest ratings for news , if this isn't the most boneheaded decision by a fool executive , what is?

[@coachave87x]

My Mum went to high school with Lisa. She had recently moved from Scotland to Canada and still remembers how nice Lisa was and how she always said "hi" in the hallway.

[@fluffyanne1177]

Was this in Kitchener Waterloo where her family lived

[@coachave87x]

@@fluffyanne1177 St. Mary's high school in Kitchener

[@maryjoan4128]

Absolutely,,,, it was discrimination,,, ageism is the biggest barrier for the careers of women,,,

[@agirlnherkomputr]

Hi Brandon. I have a story to tell about single mothers in the justice system. I am going through a divorce but I was framed by the lawyers so they could take tens and thousands of dollars. I did some digging and it happens more often than we think. I spoke to another mother who was framed for being “mentally ill”, like what happened to Brittney Spears. She is not mentally ill at all in fact she has a diagnosed autoimmune disorder which gives her fatigue. She still worked and homeschooled her kids.

[@davidobrien3897]

First time here by the way and I now subscribed as I appreciate your in depth insight on a topic such as the news which is one that really matters. We can't have our news hijacked by a bunch of cowboys.

[@Vinstar9]

People still watch these shows? Wow I haven't for years and not missing a thing

[@junejohn8736]

It's not a show it's the news

[@mera8785]

@@junejohn8736 🤣 the news is a show. Whatever script they receive from the state is what is acted out for all you tv watchers out there. Go get your 6th dose! The 18th wave is coming!!!!

[@junejohn8736]

@@mera8785 where ignorance is bliss it is folly to be wise.

[@debybryan8058]

I'd boycott them if I still watched bs news. As I don't watch tv anymore it's a moot point.

[@sueb.6567]

I’m happy to have discovered your channel! Very good content!

[@cheerfulbutterflies1025]

Wonderful insight! Thank you!

[@evelynbutler-morton1502]

Big,big,biggggg mistake CTV. She is well loved.

[@FaithPresley]

Thanks Brandon. I always liked Lisa LaFlamme. This was such sad news.

[@Debbie56]

Brandon I’m so glad I found your channel. Excellent reporting. I subscribed right away.

[@ruralwavetech1564]

Awsome! I loved Brandon when he was on CTV. I'm so glad he has this channel

[@robertgignac6715]

I remember through the years, of listening to Lisa LaFlamme. A very strong spirited woman who was very respectful, in how she talked to others. And for that, there is no longer an interest to watch CTV. All the best Lisa, and thank you. ❤

[@josephr1179]

CTV lost its charm. One man decided to destroy it.

[@richardstiles4991]

This is disgusting that CTV could let go the profession news anchor Lisa Laflame. Lisa was such a professional news person and was a big part of why millions of people watched CTV on a daily bases for years and years. Lisa was a huge, huge, reason why she got CTV news executives to the place where they are today, because of her dedication to the news whole wide. I can't image how many times with CTV news

[@SuperRtrtrtr]

Those nimrods at Your Morning will be the next to go, hopefully.

[@cayrick]

Nice reporting. I'm impressed with your analysis. Clearly someone exercised bad judgment.

[@BetterYet]

As CTV has been the last of the big 3 to drift off into wokeism, Lisa should be glad to to be out of that sinking hell hole. Now Lisa can do some real journalism. Time to give Rebel, Sun Media, or True North a call.

[@dianneh2869]

I fully agree, I blocked ctv news a long time ago. Hopefully she can move in a more honest direction and do some real journalism.