Jim Hummel, Marcelle Fontenot moving to another Lafayette television station in January

Jakori Madison, Lafayette Daily Advertiser
·2 min read

KADN/KLAF announced that news anchor duo Marcelle Fontenot and Jim Hummel will join the News15 team next year.

The longtime anchors Marcelle Fontenot and Jim Hummel were part of the the 5 , 6 and 10 p.m. newscasts for more than a decade at KATC. They will make the move effective Jan. 2.

“We’re thrilled that Marcelle and Jim will be switching channels to start the new year by joining the highly experienced team of news anchors at NEWS 15,” said Jim Parker, executive director of news and public affairs for KADN FOX 15 and KLAF-NBC. “They have a true commitment and dedication to keeping Acadiana informed, and we can’t wait to welcome them to their new home.”

Fontenot and Hummel made their final appearances on KATC during the 6 p.m. newscast Sept. 29. Hummel and Fontenot posted public statements on Facebook that revealed their plans to leave KATC.

Fontenot said in a video uploaded to her Facebook page that her intentions to leave the station did not relate to a layoff.

"Just so you know, they are not mad at me, and I am not mad at them. They are not kicking me out, and I am not walking out on them. Life happens, and change is happening. This is just one of those things," Fontenot said. “I’m excited about what the future holds for me and Jim as we continue doing what we love in this community,”

"I'm looking forward to returning to the television news anchor desk alongside my colleague and friend, Marcelle,” Hummel said.

In January, the pair will anchor NEWS 15 Live at 5 p.m., as well as 6 and 10 p.m. Jeff Horchak and Lauren Ailles will continue to anchor NEWS 15 at 9 p.m., and Ailles will join Taylor Trache on NEWS 15 First at 4 p.m.

“We know that Acadiana will really enjoy seeing Marcelle and Jim back together again,” said KADN/KLAF Vice President and General Manager Nanette Lavergne. “I can’t wait for Jan. 2.”

This article originally appeared on Lafayette Daily Advertiser: Marcelle Fontenot, Jim Hummel depart KATC and join KLAF, KADN