Gray Media Tops National Murrow Awards with Nine Wins, Outpacing Broadcast Networks
Event summary
- Gray Media won nine National Edward R. Murrow Awards, more than any other broadcast or cable network.
- WANF in Atlanta received the Overall Excellence award in the Large Market category.
- InvestigateTV exposed a nationwide 'ghost plate' scheme, prompting policy changes at New York’s MTA.
- Gray’s stations earned 93 regional Murrow Awards earlier this year.
- The awards will be officially honored at the Edward R. Murrow Awards Gala on October 12, 2026.
The big picture
Gray Media’s dominance in the National Edward R. Murrow Awards underscores the strategic value of local, high-impact journalism in an era of declining trust in media. The wins highlight Gray’s ability to combine investigative rigor with community service, positioning it as a leader in the local broadcasting sector. With 37% of US television households within its reach, Gray’s focus on quality journalism could further solidify its market position against both traditional and digital competitors.
What we're watching
- Content Differentiation
- How Gray’s investigative journalism and community-focused reporting will sustain its competitive edge against larger networks.
- Regulatory Impact
- Whether the exposure of systemic issues, such as the 'ghost plate' scheme, will lead to broader regulatory changes.
- Audience Engagement
- The pace at which Gray can leverage these awards to strengthen viewer loyalty and attract new audiences.