The queen of local late night news is stepping down this Friday after 36 years at CTV Ottawa.
"I have had the privilege of serving the people of our community for nearly my entire broadcast career and I am so grateful to our viewers who have kindly welcomed me into their lives and homes during that time," said Chapple. "I am looking forward to now pursuing other passions, but I will forever cherish my time at CTV Ottawa."
Chapple began her career at CHOV-TV Pembroke. Shortly after, she joined Ottawa's CJOH-TV, and soon stepped into the role of reporter. Chapple has hosted Regional Contact, the weekend editions of CTV News, and currently anchors CTV News at 11:30.
The program has led the late-evening ratings in the Ottawa market, even over talk show titans Jay Leno and David Letterman.
"Leigh Chapple has had a one-of-a-kind career. For a very long time she's been a constant that viewers have been able to rely upon for the full local news picture at the end of every day," said Richard Gray. Gray is the regional vice-president or radio and TV operations in Eastern Canada and the General Manager for CTV Ottawa; and said Chapple will be missed.
Chapple was a 2001 nominee for the Premier's Award. In 2003, she was named one of the Capital's top 50 people by Ottawa Magazine, and the following year was honoured as the Consumer's Choice 2004 Woman of the Year.
Chapple's replacement will be announced at a later date.
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