Denver’s master of hidden-camera stings and high-profile interviews is leaving the TV newsroom.
“It’s time,” said Paula Woodward, sizing up her decision to leave television.
Woodward broke the news to colleagues Monday, saying she is retiring as the 9 Wants to Know/Investigative Reporter after 32 years at KUSA-Channel 9. Unlike other broadcast veterans who have left the field rather than suffer pay cuts, Woodward leaves of her own accord at a time of her choosing.
“Paula decided this was the time for her to leave. In talks with her, she is proud of the investigative team and knows many great stories will be told in years to come,” said KUSA general manager Mark Cornetta. He declined to discuss Woodward’s contract or the timing of her departure.
For years, Woodward’s name was shorthand for high-impact broadcast journalism. Bumper stickers reading “I brake for Paula Woodward” acknowledged her notoriety.
As she turned down network offers, her local Emmy Awards multiplied. Among her scoops were numerous breaks in the Columbine and JonBenet Ramsey stories, an exclusive interview with a killer on death row, the exposure of an alcohol-impaired Denver Housing official and a simple piece called “Caution, Frequent Stops,” exposing slacking city workers.
That story, probably her most famous, resulted in a shake-up of the Public Works Department — plus a ratings boost for Channel 9.
