US Anchor Hosts 3-Hour Live Broadcast While in Labor After Water Breaks

Olivia Zakes of CBS Affiliate WRGB
Finishes Broadcast and Safely Delivers Baby Boy at Hospital

An American news anchor has drawn attention for her professionalism after she continued to host a three-hour morning news broadcast while experiencing labor after her water broke. After the broadcast ended, she headed to the hospital and safely delivered her baby.

According to WRGB, a CBS affiliate, on May 22 (local time), anchor Olivia Zakes of WRGB completed her scheduled broadcast without incident, even though her water broke early that morning. Her water broke in the station's restroom at around 4:15 a.m., just before the live broadcast began. This was already two days past her due date.

Anchor Olivia Zakes (left) and co-host Anchor Julia, who continued a three-hour live broadcast even after the flood broke. Olivia Zakes X (formerly Twitter)

Co-host anchor Julia Dunn informed viewers at the start of the 5 a.m. broadcast, saying, "We have breaking news this morning. Olivia's water has broken, and she is anchoring the news while in labor." Olivia herself explained, "It's early labor. I had one contraction, but I'm still okay." Olivia decided not to go to the hospital and to continue with her broadcast duties. She said, "I'm happy to be here. I'll stay at the desk as long as I can," and confidently added, "I think I can handle a three-hour show."

Olivia maintained her professionalism during the broadcast, even while experiencing contractions. She asked the meteorologist, "If our baby is born today, what will the weather be like?" and jokingly suggested a "water break" instead of a coffee break. The meteorologist also said, "If you see me running off the set, it's because I'm taking Olivia to the hospital."

Olivia remained at the anchor desk until 7:56 a.m., finishing the three-hour broadcast without any issues. Toward the end of the show, anchor Julia announced again, "Olivia is still here. She has hosted the entire show, and this was Olivia's decision." Olivia joked in response, "It's better to be at work than in the hospital."

After the broadcast, Olivia went to the hospital and safely delivered her first child, a son. It is also reported that co-host Julia is currently pregnant.

WRGB commemorated this special moment by displaying captions at the bottom of the screen reading "Baby on Board," "2 Days Past Due Date," and "Good Luck, Olivia." Colleagues also celebrated with Olivia by giving her an Easter egg as a gift.

WRGB news director Stone Grissom said, "Olivia has always shown passion for broadcasting, love for her hometown, and dedication to our viewers. We are thrilled to welcome a new member (the baby) to our family."