A Miami television news anchor is at the center of a workplace controversy after sharing vacation bikini photos on social media, just weeks after station management issued a stern warning against journalists behaving like online influencers.
Jenise Fernandez, a six-time Emmy Award winner who anchors for WPLG Local 10, posted several Instagram images from her tropical getaway to Fiji. The photos showed the former Miss Miami enjoying the crystal-clear waters at the Cloud 9 floating resort, relaxing at a bar in a red bikini, and celebrating with friends during her vacation.
The posts came shortly after WPLG Vice President of News Bill Pohovey sent a company-wide memo urging journalists to stop using social media for what he called ‘foolish nonsense.’ In the February memo, Pohovey criticized dance videos, fashion content, and outfit-of-the-day posts, arguing that such behavior undermines the credibility of professional journalists.
Pohovey emphasized that public trust in journalism is already fragile. He reminded staff that they represent the station at all times and should not behave like celebrities or influencers. The news executive even referenced broadcasting legends Dwight Lauderdale and Ann Bishop, questioning whether they would have posted similar content.
However, when contacted about Fernandez’s specific posts, Pohovey clarified that her vacation photos did not actually violate the station’s guidelines. He explained that the memo was not intended to prohibit personal vacation photos or everyday life activities on personal accounts, adding that the bikini photos were tasteful and appropriate for Florida culture.
