Frank Billingsley, the iconic TV weatherman in Houston, has announced his retirement from KPRC 2 News after an impressive 30-year run.
Known for sharing personal anecdotes along with weather forecasts, Billingsley will be missed by many loyal viewers. His departure comes shortly after another KPRC meteorologist, Khambrel Marshall, announced his retirement in November 2023.
Billingsley, who will have his last day on June 28, 2024, stated that he plans to take a break from the daily grind of wearing a suit five days a week. Despite his departure from reporting the weather, he assured fans that he has no plans of leaving the Houston area, as it is his home.
Reflecting on his long career in broadcasting, Billingsley recalled one harrowing moment during a 1992 college football game when he had to interrupt coverage to warn viewers about an approaching tornado. Despite some backlash from football fans, he knew it was essential to ensure people’s safety. The tornado caused widespread destruction, but thankfully, no fatalities were reported.
Throughout his career, Billingsley covered numerous significant weather events, including Hurricane Harvey, which he described as a “flooding of biblical proportions.” He has received numerous awards for his reporting, including being named a “Houston Legend” by Houston City Book.
Aside from his professional accomplishments, Billingsley has been an advocate for LGBTQ+ rights, men’s health, and adoption. He married his longtime partner, Kevin Gilliard, in 2012, and the couple has a son named Morgan. Billingsley has also been open about his health struggles, including a battle with prostate cancer, which he successfully overcame.
As Billingsley embarks on this new chapter in his life, he plans to stay active and involved in the community. Whether pursuing new communication opportunities or continuing his advocacy work, Billingsley’s impact on Houston and beyond is sure to endure.
