Meteorologist Chuck George is taking his second leave of absence from KOLD Channel 13 within the last 18 months, station general manager Debbie Bush announced today.

George struggled during a weather report on Tuesday’s 10 p.m. broadcast. He spoke in a slow-motion, slurred manner, and rambled a bit about a hurricane developing in the Atlantic Ocean.

He’s not been seen on the air since.

Later in the newscast, anchors Heather Rowe and Dan Marries covered for him during the weather segment, and he was not onscreen during the news wrap, which usually includes some time devoted to weather.

Tuesday’s incident marked at least the third time that George has noticeably struggled with a weather report since returning from that five-week hiatus in March and April of 2010. In April of this year, George appeared wobbly during a weather segment; another time, he phoned in the segment.

Erin Jordan has filled in for George during the remainder of this week, leaving KOLD’s morning news program without a weather presence since fellow meteorologist Aaron Pickering was on vacation.

This article appears in Sep 8-14, 2011.

64 replies on “Chuck George Takes Leave of Absence Following Odd On-Air Segment”

  2. I hope they figure out what medical condition he has and that he can get treated and back on the air. It must be really tough for him.

  3. I was watching that night and he appeared to be drunk. I recorded it and watched it a few times. It was really strange, I told my wife he looked like he had a few too many. His posts on Facebook that night were very odd. Whatever the problem is, I hope he gets better.

  4. Having this problem myself, it looks like a classic PTSD- a panic attack – and they are horrible – and I wish that more people understood how scary they are…

  5. About six week ago Chuck suddenly stopped his on air report, walked over to the camera and said something to the effect:”Down Here, Down Here!” Then proceeded to take his hand and push the camera lens down. Then he walked back to the green screen and resumed his report. Also very strange. But darn, it did frame the shot better. Chuck is a big fish in a small bowl. Sometimes, when that happens, you hit the glass sides of the fishbowl, or just the glass…bottle.

  6. He’s diabetic and dont know it. Low blood sugar I’ll bet. Get checked Chuck – it can be helped buddy.

  7. It seems unlikely that the staff at a professional news organization such as KOLD would be unable to tell if one of their newscasters is intoxicated. Assuming that his coworkers are also his friends, why would they humiliate him by letting him go on the air drunk. There could be any number of explanations for his unusual behavior. Remember the female sports reporter who had a stoke on the air which caused her to mumble gibberish? Chuck seems to me that he really enjoys his job. He presents the weather in a fun way that gets both adults and children interested in science. Regardless of the problem I hope he is able to get well soon. Our thoughts and prayers are with you Chuck.

  9. Whatever the problem is Please, Please have someone he can trust talk to him and get him HELP. After suffering a heart attack myself strange things happened to me and i did some very weird things myself. Thank GOD for a dear friend that is a retired RN that was able to get me into treatment for the heart problem

  10. Chuck George a great meteorologist and has lent his time to many, many charity events over the years. In fact, it’s hard for me to come up with any local television personality who has been as visible as George in recent years, although many do step up when asked. Whatever the case, the man is obviously struggling and I wish him the best of luck in getting back on his feet.

  13. dear chuck george
    we miss you and wish you well. both you and ms rowe are deciding factors in our watching kold. you put fun and warmth in your news broadcasts

  14. I can’t believe some of the comments you all are making about Chuck George. I hope everything is ok with your health Chuck. You’re a great weatherman! You have awesome colleagues as well so KOLD is still my first choice for news and weather. May God Bless you!

  15. Tucson LOVES Chuck George.Stop all the armchair diagnosis and pray for him,his family and recovery from whatever illness that is making him suffer.Tucson needs you Chuck.Godspeed in your recovery.

  16. I admire Chuck George, he’s always brought great weather information and explanations on what causes different weather conditions. He has spent time with school kids teaching them about meteorology and is involved in our community in many ways. I wish him all the best and hope he’s feeling top notch soon. Dealing with illness, medication side effects or any number of things that can happen is difficult and I can’t imagine being on air and trying to hold it together. Whatever is going on with Chuck, he’s got my support and respect. Feel better soon!

  17. I agree with the possibility that it could be something other than booze. My girlfriend used to appear drunk for no reason, often in the evening. It created alot of accusatory situations between us. Eventually she was found to have a seizure disorder. It happens in the evening when she is more physically tired, and there are no outward “seizure” type indicators. People forget that most seizures are not an external physical event, but often like an electrical storm in the brain. All the other things are collateral manifestations. Give the poor guy a chance to see a doctor and to watch his tapes with his bosses, it will likely bring about a clearer understanding, or admission, of what’s going on.

  18. Chuck is one good Meteorologists I love his Reports seems like a Nice guy too.It could be a number of Factors with him.Speculation is just that.Hope he gets Checked out soon.

  20. So many are eager to point to alcohl. Have any of you experts given thought to a medical comdition? TIA’s aka mini strokes come to mind.

  21. I recently moved to Casa Grande, about two months ago. Chuck George has been my favorite meteoroligist for a long time along with everyone at KOLD. I still havent been able to find any news cast here that measure up to them. Not even in the same playing field. I hope for a speedy recovery and I hope he ignores the ignorance of so many people quick to say its alcholol. People need to learn to filter their thoughts before sharing them.

  22. He appeared to be drunk. I am diabetic and have never gone into any type of “odd slurred behavior” ever, even with low blood sugar.
    It’s the 3rd time for this man, he’s young, intelligent, and needs to receive some serious help.If it were seizures, brain tumor,maybe a mini stroke. If any of these were the issue it would have been found by now, medical personnel would have found it through testing the 1st,especially 2nd time around.KOLD 13 would have informed it’s viewers what had happened to him had it been medical.
    I think this is more a substance issue. He’s disappeared in a matter of days and nothing reported on him, so it looks more like a substance issue. Whatever has happened, I hope he receives the care he and his family will need.

  23. ditto to all the good things about chuck george. he’s a beloved tucson figure and a really fine person, we are sending healing energy . good luck CG, take all the time you need, we look forward to your return.

  24. Chuck George is a great weatherman, and a great contributor to the community. He is generous with his time and finances for charities, scholarships, etc; and he is a REALLY NICE man. Now it’s time for everybody to be generous with him, at least in our thoughts and prayers. Jim

  26. My mom has been diabetic since she was two and she gets slurred speech and also starts being really goofy in some cases, not always but there are a few cases when it gets low without warning. Also, some medical conditions can’t be determined in some cases, sometimes not at all, and sometimes it takes a long list of narrowing down the symptoms. And if something is seriously wrong, how do you think he would feel if he came back looking for positive reassurance and sees all of these negative comments about him being drunk or high? Chuck George is not only a great weather man, but a wonderful citizen of Tucson. He always gets out into the public and shows his support for ALL of Tucson. We should do the same for him. Supporting him and praying that this isn’t too serious. Even if his actions we’re a bit odd, it is not fair that some jump to conclusions that he was intoxicated. I don’t believe KOLD would allow him to go on if they knew he was, and I doubt Chuck would disappoint Tucson by doing so. Give him a little respect.

  27. Chuck George is one of the reason I watch KOLD along with Heather and Dan and the sports announcer. It is my favorite news station. My mother was a diabetic for years and when her blood sugar was low, her speech became blurred and she learned what to do in those cases, thank goodness. My prayers are with Chuck and hope he is back on the road to a recovery soon and on the air again. Chuck, I miss seeing you.
    Shirley

  29. Regardless of what the condition, he’s still the best meteorologist in the state, bar none. I can think of no one with a more positive influence on our community. Hope you have a speedy recovery Chuck.

  30. Chuck is a great Tucsonan, maybe one of the hardest working citizens here. You can’t work that hard and be weak. He’ll pull through. He’ll be back! My wife calls him the cute weather guy, but he’s also the “smart weather guy”!

  31. KOLD has the best news people! Since moving to Tucson in 2000, I have watched only their news. I have met Chuck on several ocassions, and he has always been kind, courteous, polite and respectful of others. He is a wonderful person and we pray for his recovery – of whatever the problem. Take care Chuck – you are missed! God bless.

  32. Chuck George is a huge asset to KOLD. He is thorough in his work, considerate and warm to co-workers, entertaining and is an expert meteorologist. My thoughts and prayers are with this young man.

  33. The stigma attached to alcoholism or drug addition is biting. Anyone in the program or with a loved one in the program knows how hard it is to get well. It is so much harder when one has a public life.

    If it is a physical illness I hope that he gets a quick diagnosis and treatment. If it is a long term program solution–then I hope he knows there are many who have walked that difficult path and have found happiness. If he takes that walk I hope he knows that everyone in the program will lend a welcome and protect his privacy.

  34. I never thought that I would appreciate and respect a news weatherman as much as I did, Steve Pool, KOMO Seattle. After moving to Tucson and watching Chuck George (Chief Chuck), I realized that there is indeed a Santa Claus. Chuck is enthusiastic, informative and has an undeniable screen presence. He is truly one of the best; KOLD and Tucson benefit from his choice to live and work here. I wish him the best and hope that he will return to us soon. I won’t conjecture on what’s going on in his life. It’s none of my business.

  35. Hope that Chuck gets the help he needs. He is a stand out weather man. We love to watch him
    on the air. We will pray for him. God bless.

  36. We are so sorry to hear about Chuck George, 9-13-11. Rumours are so vicious. Please leave our good friend alone to take care of whatever is ailing him, just as any human being deserves. B/M

  37. Chuck George is a consumate professional, whether on the air or out in the community. He is bigger than Tucson and we are so very fortunate to have him. No matter what his current problem is, we wish him well and pray for his recovery and return to doing what he loves and does so well. Let’s remember whether it is diabetes, a seizure disorder, substance abuse, or whatever, they are all illnesses and require treatment as well as compassion for the victim. Be well, our friend and know that you are loved and respected.

  38. Chuck – all your true friends are pulling for you buddy. Take comfort in knowing that you are so dear to so many of us. I worked with Chuck for years and can tell you he is a special human. We are lucky that he has chosen to make Tucson his home. Get better my friend.

  39. There are many neurological disorders that could be the crux of his problem..Drunk? I don’t believe that one at all….He could have Multiple Sclerosis, high blood pressure leading to stroke…and several other possibilities…All I can say is I hope he is going to regain his mobility and speech abilities very soon…I have M.S. myself and those symtoms he was exhibiting were very much what happened to me…I hope it isn’t that…but it is possible…There is life after a M.S. diagnosis…so don’t have him dead and buried IF that happens to be what it is…I’m sure his Doctor’s are considering everything…

    I don’t watch him but hope he returns to work soon for all of those who do watch him…

  40. God bless you, Chuck! May our prayers and well wishes find you and help you to a speedy recovery. You are a special man and part of what makes Tucson. We miss you.

  41. Get better Chuck, we miss you! Besides, you have the only job in the world where you can be wrong most of the time and still be amongst the best at your profession. 😉

  43. Ive heard the guy loves to party (I do too). I hope he gets well soon as Rob Gurino on 4 puts me to sleep, and Erin Christensen takes herself way too seriously!!! Might be time to talk to Dr. Drew Chuck……….much love

  46. Chuck George is the most enjoyable part of any news segment on any local channel. He’s part of what makes Tucson wonderful.

  47. There are a number of conditions that may cause this sort of behavior other than intoxication. Whenever a person is as smiley as CG, something has to be out of whack.

  48. Chuck George is an outstanding weatherman. Since coming to Tucson three years ago, we have learned so much about the community because of his broadcasts that take place at many community events. He makes the weather a science lesson every single night he is on. We wish him only the best, take care of yourself, Chuck, and return to us quickly!

    Tucson newbie

  49. Did Chuck George come to Tucson from Houston? Seems he left Houston nearly three years ago and showed up in Tucson. Strange to move from a bigger market to a smaller one. Maybe he has had ongoing problems that are getting worse?
    I know several people in Tucson who really like him, they feel protective and parental toward him from seeing him on tv and at appearances. They say he is single and he may not have any family in Tucson. The tv station may be his family and it would seem they are patient with his problem and I hope they are actively trying to help. Everyone needs help sometime in life. We should all help each other.

  50. It is possible it’s multipe sclerosis. It is a neurological problem that affects the myelin and ultimately it affects the nerves, speech, vision as well as other symptoms. Usually, but not always, those with the onset of MS are in their mid 20’s through 30’s. Many times the person appears to be drunk, because their speech is affected, their vision blurred, and staggering. These are all indications of multiple sclerosis.

  51. As a community we should pray for healing of whatever is wrong with Mr George, it doesn’t matter what is causing him to slurr etc, just get healthy again.

  52. Everyone that is criticizing or can’t wait to spread rumors of alcohol or other substance abuse without knowing anything about Chuck needs to just shut up and crawl back under their rock. Chuck is a member of my family and he’s one of the most loving, caring, decent people that I know. If you don’t know him, don’t work with him, didn’t grow up with him and don’t know him as a person instead of just a tv personality, you look like an idiot when you start rumors like that. Give him time to heal and recover and respect his privacy. Get well Chuck – those who know you love and support you completely!

  53. Chuck George was in Houston for several years as a morning meteorologist. I was told he moved to the Tucson area to be near family. He has always seemed to be a terrific guy…Iam hoping he will get well and get back to KOLD soon.

  54. I really enjoy Chuck George’s weather reports. In fact he’s the main reason why I watch KOLD. He seems like a wonderful person and I understand he is active in doing good things for others. I hope it’s nothing serious and he can come back to work soon.

  55. I wish you only the best and hope you will be able to return to KOLD soon. Know that you are missed.

  56. We miss you and wish you the best. May the lord bless you and take care of you, hope to see you soon! M. Noe and BB Noe (Rio Rico, Az)

  57. Chuck George is in our prayers and we wish him all the best..We hope he receives the help he needs and is able to return to the job he seems to love..Janet & Skip Brehmer

  58. From a native Tucsonan, I have come to look forward to watching my Chief Meteorologist Chuck George give an intelligent explanation of our great weather — yes Virginia — we DO have changes of the seasons! Whatever all you nay-sayers are saying, Chuck is in a battle for his life, for his family, for his community which he dearly loves, say nothing of his position at Channel 13. His life is just as important as someone in a political position who has just experienced tragedy. Where are all the balloons, candles and placards of encouragement???? We are praying for your speedy recovery and the conquering of the thing that holds you prisoner.

  61. I am from Houston, he was the best weatherman when he was here, and there have not been another weatherman to fill his shoes since he left. He was extremely popular and well like when he was in Houston. I woke up early in the morning just to watch his weather report, too bad I didnt meet him in person.

  62. Chuck I hope everything gets well I dont know whath the problem is if there is one my family and my self realy miss you I personaly think you are one of the best in whath you do.I hope everything is good take care God bless you Familia.Dicochea Montante.

  63. Chuck George is a drug addict. Cocaine is his preference. He has no other medical conditions other that be a drug addict.

  64. Chuck George has a medical condition called Depression and has had that problem for a long time so I believe this why his behavior is odd, he may not be taking his meds all the time or needs his med changed.

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