An NBC anchor announced recently that she is stepping away from the evening anchor desk at WVTM 13 in Birmingham, Alabama.
Brittany Decker on why she won’t return to WVTM 13 station
NBC anchor Brittany Decker decided not to return after maternity leave to focus on motherhood and spend more time with her family. Decker and her husband, Jared Mattsson, became parents in July 2026 when she gave birth to their first child, a baby girl named Jaci Mae.
She shared the unexpected news through her Instagram. In a detailed announcement, she revealed that motherhood and new family opportunities influenced her decision. Her daughter Jaci and husband Jared played important roles.
She wrote, “AFTER MORE THAN 15 YEARS of telling other people’s stories, I have a change in my own to share. I won’t be returning to the evening anchor desk at WVTM 13. I began maternity leave expecting to come back.”
“Between loving life with Jaci and unexpected opportunities in Jared’s growing business, so much has changed for our family in a short time. We want more room to be together through it all. This wasn’t the decision I planned to make, and it hasn’t been an easy one.”
In her announcement, Decker wrote, “I want to be the best mom I can be, keep challenging myself and do meaningful work that gives me energy.” She also admitted that motherhood changed how she viewed herself.
She further explained her feelings about leaving television. “This wasn’t the decision I planned to make, and it hasn’t been an easy one.” She also described the major changes in her personal life, including a difficult pregnancy and stepping away from marathon running after seven years.
The former anchor also reflected on her 15-year journalism career. She thanked Hearst and WVTM 13 for their opportunities. Despite leaving her evening anchor position, Decker isn’t leaving journalism completely.
She revealed, “I still love journalism, writing, and being a community advocate.” She further expressed hope about working with the station again. “I hope to have the opportunity to return to WVTM in the future and remain involved with WVTM and Hearst in some capacity.”
She concluded her announcement by thanking everyone who supported her career. “To my coworkers, photographers, coanchors and everyone behind the scenes: I love you. You will be part of my story forever.” Decker also encouraged viewers to say hello whenever they meet her outside.
