BOSTON – Kimberly Bookman, a familiar face on Boston television for over a decade, is set to sign off from 7News WHDH on Tuesday evening, marking the conclusion of a significant chapter in her broadcast journalism career. Her departure, announced over the weekend, brings to an end a twelve-year tenure at the station, a duration considered unusually long in the often-transient world of local news.
"I believe the best stories are the ones that keep unfolding. So stay tuned… the next chapter is just beginning!" — Kimberly Bookman, 7News Reporter
Bookman herself acknowledged the longevity of her time at WHDH in her Sunday announcement, stating, "12 years. It’s the longest amount of time I’ve ever stayed at any job. Come Tuesday, I will sign off from 7News – WHDH Boston for the last time." Her career has been characterized by a reputation for careful and deliberate reporting, particularly when covering sensitive or rapidly developing stories. She highlighted this standard as a core principle of her work, noting, "I always strived to be responsible in my reporting – knowing how important words are during challenging times, breaking news, and on emotional subjects."
Beyond her on-air presence, Bookman emphasized her contributions within the newsroom itself, describing a legacy built through mentorship. "I trained nearly every reporter who walked through the doors in the last decade… I am proud of my contributions here," she wrote, underscoring her role in shaping the next generation of journalists at WHDH.
In an industry where high-profile exits often fuel speculation, Bookman was quick to address the nature of her departure. "This is my choice," she affirmed, leaving no room for ambiguity regarding the decision-making process. Rather than presenting her exit as a definitive end, Bookman framed it as a transition, teasing future endeavors without offering specifics. "I believe the best stories are the ones that keep unfolding. So stay tuned… the next chapter is just beginning!" she wrote.
A native of Needham, Massachusetts, Bookman pursued broadcast journalism at American University. Her path to 7News, where she arrived in August 2014, included a stint at WCVB, another prominent Boston station. During her time there, she gained significant experience covering two of the city’s most impactful modern historical events: the Boston Marathon bombings and the extensive manhunt and subsequent capture of notorious organized crime figure James “Whitey” Bulger.
Her distinguished body of work has garnered considerable industry recognition. Bookman is a recipient of a regional Robert F. Murrow Award, considered a top honor in broadcast journalism. Her accolades also include three New England Emmy Awards and a Southeastern Emmy, in addition to formal recognition from the New York State Broadcasters Association and the Associated Press. Notably, two of her Emmy wins were for specific assignments: her coverage of the Mattapan Massacre and her reporting on a Massachusetts Water Resources Authority water main break that significantly impacted the region.
As news of her impending departure circulated, tributes began to pour in from colleagues at 7News. Anchor Amaka Ubaka took to Instagram to celebrate Bookman's influence on the newsroom culture. "Wow congrats on 12 years! You know I’ve always called you the MVP of our station! And those words ring so TRUE! You are kind, incredibly smart, always had exclusive stories & operate with such compassion with those you interview and encounter. You are a SUPERSTAR and don’t ever forget it," Ubaka posted. Similarly, anchor Keke Vencill praised Bookman's dedication and service. "I’m so proud to be part of your team, Kimberly. You’re one of the most dedicated journalists in the field, leading with a mindset of community service both at work and outside of it. Wishing you all the best and many blessings in this new chapter," Vencill shared in a separate post.
As of the initial reports following Bookman’s announcement, Sunbeam Television, the owner of 7News, had not issued a public statement regarding her departure. Bookman has also remained silent on her future professional plans, offering no indication of where her next chapter might lead. For the viewers who have followed her reporting for over a decade, her final words suggest that her story is far from over, merely entering a new phase.
