WPXI: Pittsburgh's NBC Affiliate Station

WPXI (Channel 11) is a prominent television station based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, serving as the primary NBC affiliate for the region. Owned and operated by the Cox Media Group, the station's studios are located on Evergreen Road in the Summer Hill neighborhood, while its transmitter is situated on Television Hill in the Fineview section of the city.

History of the Station

As WIIC (1957–1981)

The station first signed on the air on September 1, 1957, as WIIC. It was established as a joint venture between the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette and the Pittsburgh Radio Supply House. While it initially sought a contract with CBS, the station eventually affiliated with NBC after CBS chose KDKA-TV as its full-time affiliate.

During its early years, the station featured original programming such as Studio Wrestling and Chiller Theatre, both hosted by the legendary Bill Cardille. In 1964, the station was sold to Cox Enterprises, marking the beginning of a long-term partnership with NBC. In 1970, the station made broadcasting history when Eleanor Schano became the first woman to anchor a newscast solo in Pittsburgh.

As WPXI (1981–present)

On April 20, 1981, the station changed its call sign to WPXI (where "XI" represents the Roman numeral for 11). Since then, the station has maintained its identity as a leading news source for Western Pennsylvania.

WPXI has been involved in various community events and the Jerry Lewis MDA Telethon for decades, with Bill Cardille hosting the local portion until 2012. Additionally, Cox Enterprises expanded its reach in the region by purchasing WTOV in Steubenville, Ohio, and WJAC-TV in Johnstown, Pennsylvania, creating a cluster of NBC affiliates in the area.

Technical Specifications