Wednesday, July 2, 2014

The KPIX Catfight Between Elizabeth Cook and Veronica De La Cruz; Talk of Jealousy and 'Threat' at 855 Battery; Wednesday Opener

 There's a little mini-drama taking place at KPIX. I'm not so sure it has to happen because the characters in the play are good performers and talented news anchors.


Seems since the arrival of Veronica De La Cruz, a few people at 855 Battery have become jealous --one staffer, notably, anchorwoman, Elizabeth Cook.


See, it was Cook who began to emerge as the face of the station. Cook co-anchored the 5, 6, 10 and 11 PM news. Her popularity seemed to annoy a few people at PIX, most notably Allen Martin, who was resentful of Liz's lack of work credentials and inability to read a teleprompter. Clearly a major disconnect between Martin and Cook was the talk of the newsroom. Still is, although I'm told, the tension has lessened considerably with the emergence of De La Cruz which ironically has created more wrath --quite unexpectedly.


One of my moles at PIX says everyone is getting along, sort of. Any jealousy regarding VDLC? "There is some --but mostly it's more Liz versus Veronica. I think she, (Liz) regards her as a threat."

A threat? You betcha.


"They've had some catfights--it's all about power and perception. Everybody here sort of has been taking it in stride. It's part of the business."


De La Cruz has taken the high road and won't talk --sounds like a good plan.


Cook's working relationship with Martin is the one PIX suits should worry about--Martin has been noticeably happier and more engaging when working with VLDC--not so much with Cook, whom he feels is a spoiled brat and is resentful of her.


"Allen likes Veronica", says my mole. "Respects her. He still CAN'T STAND Liz and her superficial ways and lack of her experience."


Nothing like a good catfight at the PIX Battery Gulch.


Remember when watching the people who smile in front of the teleprompter; some hate their partner's guts.


You don't have to go too far to figure it out: It's happening right here in the city by the bay.









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15 comments:

  1. Well, once again, as with most things, including KTVU's decline while you were still calling them the gold standard, I called this one correctly. Never bought the excuses why they were taking so long to get VDLC on the air, and figured it was because Liz hated her. I kept joking that she'd better watch her coffee but I was/am semi-serious.

    Never met or worked with Liz Cook, but she seems on air like a snotty, cold brat. I hope De La Cruz eats her alive.

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  2. Elizabeth has evil looking eyes. Something about her gives me the creeps.

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    Replies
    1. In the movie she'll be played by Anna Kendrick. I *like* Anna Kendrick, but she can play a snarky type very well when she wants to, and they look at least a little alike.

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  3. Smiling in front of.the teleprompter and hating their partners guts reminds me of the anchorman scene when the credits are rolling, "you're a real hooker, and I'm going to slap you in public"

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  4. Nice Mckayla is not impressed face in that shot.

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  5. "De La Cruz has taken the high road and won't talk --sounds like a good plan."

    "Respects her. She still CAN'T STAND Liz and her superficial ways and lack of her experience."

    So which one is it Rich?

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    1. First quote is about De La Cruz, second quote is referring to Martin's opinions. Two different people.

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  6. well she can creep me out any day

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  7. Maybe just a couple of prima donnas - but If I had to choose one, I'd choose Veronica, just for her professionalism in front of a camera.

    Poor Liz just can't get comfortable in her own skin; she's always working those facial muscles - always a tad too much. These past few days Allen and Liz can barely look at each other, and then with no smiles.

    Bounce Liz, move Veronica to 5pm and we'll all be better off for it.

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  8. If someone came to your work place who had more experience and talent and you knew your daddy got you the job in the first place you'd be worried to.

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    Replies
    1. She's very pretty and a competent anchor (obviously had to pass muster with CBS HR in New York) but every time I see her I'm reminded of how much she looks and apparently acts like one of those bimbos from Three Little Liars. Seriously!

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  9. Rich…. "Catfight?" Really. Come on now… These are two workers who are obviously having conflict in their workplace. Can we remove the "oooh, girl fight" twist to this story and focus on why KPIX management is not providing a productive workplace for their staff, on-air or anywhere else in the building? (BTW, weren't you taking a few days off? It is okay to step away from your blog, and enjoy a week of net Independence… KPIX fireworks be damned!) ;D

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  10. I think Veronica is really good. She reads the news well and her "happy talk" with the other news people doesn't sound forced. She just has a better personality and a better presence on screen.

    KPIX made a valiant effort to try to make Elizabeth the face of their channel. It just didn't work.

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    Replies
    1. Veronica more polished and just better at the job. Its that simple.

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  11. I for one am glad I no longer see Veronica's face on the 6:00 mews. And I hope Elizabeth remains right where she is, and
    Veronica "never" returns.

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