ALBANY, N.Y. (AP) — In a remarkable display of commitment and professionalism, local news co-anchor Olivia Jaquith continued to anchor a three-hour morning newscast even after entering active labor. The incident occurred on Wednesday morning, notably as Jaquith's labor contractions began and her water broke. The CBS6 Albany broadcast took an exciting turn when co-anchor Julia Dunn announced, “We do have some breaking news this morning — literally,” revealing to viewers that Jaquith was anchoring while in labor.
Despite the circumstances, Jaquith managed to maintain her composure, responding with humor by saying, “Early labor, early labor,” acknowledging that she was two days past her due date. As the broadcast continued, Jaquith stayed on the air, offering live updates and keeping her audience engaged while Dunn used Facebook Live to document the unique situation.
Throughout the show, Jaquith expressed her determination to remain on set for as long as she could, stating, “I’m happy to be here, and I’ll stay on the desk for as long as I possibly can. But if I disappear, that’s what’s going on.” This candid admission not only highlighted her dedication but also provided a relatable moment for viewers, blending the realities of personal life and professional duty.
While Jaquith was afforded the option to leave and head to the hospital, she chose to remain at work. In an interview with the Times-Union, she explained that she preferred to spend her time at the studio rather than “nervously waiting around at the hospital.” This decision reflects her passion for journalism and the connection she feels with her audience during such a pivotal moment in her life.
In a follow-up text to the newspaper, Jaquith also emphasized the importance of her co-workers' support. She noted, “Having the entire morning team alongside me cracking jokes helped me get through contractions much easier.” This camaraderie among colleagues not only made the situation more bearable for Jaquith, but it also showcased the tight-knit community within the newsroom.
After the broadcast, Jaquith gave birth to her son, Quincy, with the announcement made public on Thursday. The series of events has garnered significant attention, as viewers and colleagues alike have responded with admiration for Jaquith’s multi-tasking ability during such a critical moment.
This extraordinary episode serves as a testament not only to Jaquith's dedication to her profession but also to the supportive environment fostered within the news team. Her experience resonates with many who understand the balance of personal commitments and professional responsibilities, particularly for working parents. As such, Olivia Jaquith's labor and her decision to continue anchoring amidst it are bound to be remembered as a remarkable instance of resilience in the broadcasting industry.
