"Bring Back Matt!" SW Florida in Outrage Over WINK Firing of Matt Devitt

Popular meteorologist, Matt Devitt (Facebook photo)

Matt Devitt spent ten years at WINK News, helping Southwest Florida get through some of its worst storms. Folks say he saved lives—especially when hurricanes like Irma and Ian hit. Now, WINK has been fired without any explanation after 10 years on the air, and honestly, people are shocked.

On Saturday, January 10, 2026, Devitt broke the news on Facebook. “After 10 years, my time with WINK News has come to an end after being let go from my role as Chief Meteorologist on Thursday. This decision was not one that I expected or agreed with and was not given the opportunity to say goodbye on-air. It was a complete shock to me, my family and fellow coworkers.

Serving our Southwest Florida community for the past decade has been an honor and privilege, especially through Hurricanes Irma, Ian, Helene and Milton. I always gave you everything I had with one goal in mind: keeping you safe and informed without the hype.

While this chapter ended differently than I hoped, I wish WINK News, along with my previous coworkers and weather team, the best.

I will still be providing weather updates on this page; it just won’t be on TV anymore. My new Facebook name is being changed to Matt Devitt Weather, which you’ll see shortly. In addition to sending Facebook messages, you are always welcome to email me at MattDevittWX@gmail.com.

I’m taking a brief pause professionally to reset and be with my family. I’ve missed them, and I’m looking forward to every minute. I’ll keep you all updated on what’s next.

Thank you to everyone who has reached out with support, it has meant more to me than you know. – Matt Devitt Weather”

Matt Devitt guiding viewers through Hurricane Ian

Since the news broke, social media’s been buzzing. Residents and longtime viewers keep posting messages, backing Devitt and thanking him. It’s loud and clear: the community wants him to know he mattered.