On July 28, 2025, KTTC News weatherman Nick Jansen drew widespread attention after he briefly texted his wife during a live broadcast of severe weather in Rochester, Minnesota. Amidst covering an intense storm, Nick used his phone to check on his wife and child, instructing them to take shelter in the basement.
This quick action triggered varied reactions online; some viewers criticized it as unprofessional, while many others defended him, seeing it as a responsible decision by a husband and father prioritizing his family during an emergency.
Nick later apologized on air, clarifying that his family’s safety was paramount in that moment, and that his roles as a husband and father superseded his professional duties. In a subsequent post, he underscored that his actions were a matter of humanity, not professionalism. Numerous online users supported Nick, commending his swift choice to ensure his family’s well-being during a life-threatening situation.
The incident ultimately underscored the ongoing challenge of balancing work and personal life, alongside the increasing scrutiny from social media audiences.