WBBJ says farewell to reporter/weekend anchor Ryan Brooks

The WBBJ 7 Eyewitness News team is saying farewell to reporter/ weekend anchor Ryan Brooks.

Over the past two years, Ryan has helped bring invaluable news coverage to West Tennessee both on the field and behind the desk. Before he leaves for his next adventure, we had a few questions for him about his time reporting in our community.

What have you enjoyed most about reporting in West Tennessee?

I’ve gained a great deal of respect for how news reaches our audience, not just at the local level but across the country. I can’t express how much of a difference it makes to interact personally with the community and tell the stories that matter. Every day is different, which is the best part because there’s always room to grow, learn something different, and become better. It has been the greatest opportunity of my life to serve my community in this capacity, and I’m grateful for the experiences along the way.

What are some of the most memorable stories that you’ve helped tell?

During my time in West Tennessee, I’ve covered the Memphis Safe Task Force; catastrophic storm-damage tours with Gov. Bill Lee and U.S. Sen. Marsha Blackburn; the RED Carpet premiere of the hit series “9-1-1: Nashville”; the Holly Bobo trial; the 2025 presidential election; the Tennessee Drummond manhunt; the David Swift trial; a private inaugural Denver Air Connection flight debut; B.E. Scott’s BBQ appearance on the SEC Network’s True South series; Vanderbilt’s LifeFlight launch; and countless social media influencer features with the Tennessee Soul Family, Chef Bunky D & Tonia, Twinadime, Randy Santel, and Katina Eats Kilos.

What advice do you have for future reporters preparing for their first job?

Always stay true to your voice, style, and charisma, no matter what. Your confidence can move a room. Remember, you are the talent, and the territory comes with a trusted responsibility to reflect core morals, values, facts, and connections that will truly set you apart from the crowd.

What would you say to the viewers who have supported you?

Thank you all, YOU…the viewers, family, friends, and those who have consistently shown up for me over the past two years. Whether you were encouraging, uplifting, or motivating, I’m truly inspired by the efforts I’ve been a part of to make a difference. The patience, generosity, and kindness I’ve received are absolutely unmatched. Thank you, West Tennessee!

Tune in Saturday at 10 p.m. to catch Ryan’s final broadcast!