The turbulent history of Alabama's first television station, Birmingham's channel 13

Countries & Cities · Published 15 October 2026 · Updated 25 October 2026 Swipe more like this →

In short: Before it became a modern powerhouse, Alabama's first television station navigated decades of corporate mergers, shifting network affiliations, and intense local news rivalries. From its 1949 debut as WAFM-TV to its current status under Hearst, the station has been a central player in the evolution of Birmingham broadcasting.

Launched on July 1, 1949, as WAFM-TV, channel 13 holds the distinction of being the first television station to broadcast in Alabama. Its early years were defined by technical experimentation, including the use of lower-quality kinescopes until coaxial cable arrived in Birmingham in September 1950. The station operated under various call signs—WABT and WAPI-TV—as it navigated complex network arrangements. For over 15 years, Birmingham supported only two stations, forcing channel 13 to juggle dual affiliations with NBC, CBS, and ABC. It was not until May 1970 that the station committed to a sole NBC affiliation, a move intended to better serve the local market through focused programming.

The station's news identity underwent significant shifts, particularly during the 1980s. Following its 1980 acquisition by the Times Mirror Company and a rebranding to WVTM-TV, the station became a serious contender against its long-time rival, WBRC. The 1981 hiring of popular anchors Joe Langston and Herb Winches marked a turning point, briefly propelling WVTM to the top of the ratings. However, the station faced instability in the 1990s as ownership transitioned through Argyle Television and New World Communications. By the mid-1990s, the emergence of new competitors like ABC 33/40 and internal management shifts saw WVTM's news ratings decline, leading to a period of intense restructuring and investment in new technology.

Ownership stability returned in 2014 when Hearst Television acquired the station from Media General. This era has seen a steady recovery in audience standing, with the station climbing back to second place in late news ratings by 2023. The station's evolution continues today; on August 1, 2026, it expanded its reach by assuming the CBS affiliation for the Birmingham market on its fourth subchannel. From its early days of hosting live concerts and local children's programs to its current digital-age operations on Red Mountain, channel 13 remains a fixture of the Alabama media landscape.

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