Miami News Station Addresses Social Media Content Concerns

A memo from WPLG Vice President of News, Bill Pohovey, stresses the importance of maintaining professional social media conduct. The memo, which was disseminated to staff at a Miami news station, raises concerns over influencer-like content that detracts from journalistic integrity.

Pohovey has reminded staff several times to focus on their roles as journalists. Despite these reminders, social media posts from an anchor at the station have sparked conversation. Jenise Fernandez, a WPLG anchor and reporter, shared pictures from her vacation in Fiji, wearing a bikini that became a point of discussion. These posts have approximately 28,000 followers.

Pohovey clarified the memo was sent prior to the posts by Fernandez. It was not a response to her actions but a reiteration of longstanding guidelines. He emphasized the memo wasn’t aimed at preventing personal vacation photos or everyday activities.

Fernandez’s images on social media included shots on a resort boat and at a floating bar, all of which Pohovey remarked were tasteful. Pohovey defended the station’s approach, indicating that the memo’s objective was to remind staff of their public persona’s impact and their journalist roles.

The memo criticizes social media content that diverts attention from professional personas as journalists. Pohovey has specifically mentioned avoiding dance videos, fashion showcases, and similar non-journalistic content. He discouraged filming social media content within the newsroom premises, stating that it detracts from journalistic credibility.

Moreover, he underscores the growing distrust in news media, impacted by unprofessional behavior. Pohovey notes that credibility is at stake when such content appears, and he urges staff to place higher value on their journalistic roles over likes and follows.

Fox News Digital has reached out to both Fernandez and Pohovey for further comments. Julia Bonavita, covering media and culture for Fox News Digital, contributes to this report.