George Smith

Nexstar's WOOD-TV (Grand Rapids) has announced the hiring of George Smith to its News 8 Daybreak team. Smith joins Teresa Weakley on the anchor desk weekdays from 4:30 a.m. to 7 a.m.

"I'm so excited to join the Daybreak team at WOOD TV8. I'm drawn to West Michigan's pace of life and the friendliness of the people here. I'm looking forward to exploring all Grand Rapids and West Michigan has to offer," Smith said.

"George Smith's 20+ year career in broadcast journalism includes stops at ESPN, Chicago, Cleveland, and Madison, Wisconsin. He can anchor from the desk. He can anchor from the field. I believe George will complement what Teresa, Matt Kirkwood, Tom Hillen and the Daybreak team have already built," said WOOD-TV News Director Brad Kessie.

Smith graduated from Columbia University's School of Journalism and studied at Phillips Academy — Andover and Oberlin College. He’s a member of the Oberlin College Heisman Club Board, which supports the athletic department.

When he’s not at the anchor desk, Smith enjoys working out and playing golf. He’s traveled to 49 states (only missing Alaska) and has two children.

Smith began his duties at the station this past Tuesday (9/3).