NEWS 19 anchor Steve Johnson has announced his retirement from broadcasting after 47 years at WHNT earlier in May.

“On Feb. 4, I marked my 50th anniversary working in television news,” Johnson said about his retirement in a statement. “Obviously, most of that has been spent at News 19. But it’s the “50″ that sticks in my mind, and it seems like a great stopping place. I’m healthy, mostly, and I like the idea of doing some new things.”

Johnson started his career at WHNT in 1977 as a sports director where he spent 22 years until, in 1999, Johnson transitioned from sports to covering news.

It was in 2013 Johnson was promoted to News 19 This Morning as co-anchor.

“I am so glad that I’ve had the opportunity to work with Steve,” Greg Baldwin, News 19 News Director, said in the statement. “His dedication to excellence in journalism was evident as soon as I arrived at News 19. Steve has been a staple in our newsroom. His leadership, knowledge and expertise have played a major role in the success of our product. Steve’s retirement is well deserved!”

Johnson’s final broadcast is set for June 14.

Mark Heim is a reporter for The Alabama Media Group. Follow him on Twitter @Mark_Heim. He can be heard on “The Opening Kickoff” on WNSP-FM 105.5 FM in Mobile or on the free Sound of Mobile App from 6 to 9 a.m. daily.