News Anchor Olivia Jaquith Delivers Morning Broadcast After Water Breaks Live On Air

Host Olivia Jaquith went into labor before her newscast

ALBANY, NEW YORK — Local news anchor Olivia Jaquith went into labor moments before going live on air but chose to power through the morning broadcast, astonishing both colleagues and viewers with her dedication.

Jaquith, a host at CBS affiliate WRGB, was preparing for the morning newscast when her water broke. Despite her co-workers urging her to head to the hospital, the anchor remained calm and decided to deliver the news — while in early labor.

The host decided to stay through the morning before going to the hospital

“We do have some breaking news this morning, literally,” co-anchor Julia Dunn announced at the start of the show. “Olivia’s water has broke and she is anchoring the news now in active labor.”

“Early labor,” Jaquith quickly clarified with a smile, showing no signs of panic.

The anchor admitted she had experienced one contraction prior to going live but brushed off suggestions to leave. “It’s been a few minutes since then, so we’re still in good shape,” she said. Dunn was quick to point out that continuing with the broadcast was “her decision to stay on the desk.”

Jaquith first felt cramps the night before

A red box in the upper corner of the screen read, “Days past due date: 2,” referencing that Jaquith was already two days overdue. She had first announced her pregnancy in February following her participation in the Disney Princess Half-Marathon, which she ran with her sister while pregnant.

“Well, I’m happy to be here and I’ll stay on the desk for as long as I can,” Jaquith told viewers, maintaining composure throughout the live show.

Off-air, Dunn recorded and shared a behind-the-scenes moment, capturing the astonishment in the newsroom. “Guys, this isn’t April Fools. Olivia’s water broke in the newsroom,” she said in disbelief before passing the phone to Jaquith.

“I don’t know what’s going on — this is my first time. I’m new here,” Jaquith joked, laughing as she described how she discovered she was in labor. “Yesterday I was getting cramps when I was on the desk and didn’t think anything of it… This morning I got up to go pee, but then stuff just kept coming out.”

When asked why she stayed, Jaquith replied confidently, “I think I could get through a three-hour show,” as she continued typing on her computer.

The duo shared lighthearted moments throughout the broadcast, with Dunn encouraging viewers to support the soon-to-be mom by tuning in.

WRGB News Director Stone Grissom praised Jaquith’s determination, calling her actions nothing short of inspiring. “From her on-air pregnancy announcement earlier this year to running a half-marathon while expecting, Olivia has met every stage of this journey with grace and grit. Today was no exception,” he said. “Olivia’s passion for storytelling, love for her hometown, and commitment to our viewers have always been evident. We’re overjoyed to soon welcome our newest (and tiniest!) member.”

Jaquith is expecting a baby boy with her husband, Tyn.