Two Legendary South Louisiana News Anchors Announce Retirements After Decades of Service

Two longtime fixtures of South Louisiana television, Darla Montgomery of KLFY News 10 and Agnes Derouen of KPLC, have announced their retirements after decades of delivering the news to Acadiana. Collectively, we're talking nearly 80 years informing and connecting with viewers across the region.

Darla Montgomery Retiring After 33 Years

Darla Montgomery, a trusted presence in Acadiana homes for more than thirty years, is stepping away from the anchor desk after a career dedicated to storytelling with integrity. A native of Opelousas and a graduate of the University of Southwestern Louisiana, Montgomery began her career in 1992 and has since become one of the most respected journalists in our area's history. She is known for her authentic, deep connection to the community.

Her reporting has taken her from local election coverage to international assignments, including traveling with Louisiana Governor Kathleen Blanco to Canada. She has interviewed key political figures such as former Vice President Al Gore and strategist James Carville.

Montgomery has been recognized with multiple Associated Press awards, including for her work on a documentary about a local priest’s mission in Haiti. She has also contributed to preserving Acadiana’s culture through reports on South Louisiana folk medicine and traiteurs.

“The most meaningful stories are the ones right here at home,” Montgomery said. “The people of this community are what have made this job so special.”

A celebration honoring Montgomery’s career is expected to be announced soon.

Agnes Derouen to Sign Off After 45 Years

Agnes Derouen, a well-known news anchor in Southwest Louisiana, will officially retire on March 28, bringing an end to a 45-year career in broadcast journalism.

Derouen’s career began at KATC in 1982 after a professor at USL encouraged her to pursue broadcasting. Since then, she has covered a wide range of stories, from reporting on Acadiana’s cultural history to securing a rare interview with Mother Teresa during her visit to Lafayette.

She has won multiple awards, including a Murrow Award for a feature on Nicky the Swamp Dog, and was a key figure in the award-winning series Acadiana Down Home, which highlighted regional music, art, and history.

“When I see you out and about and you tell me how you enjoy my broadcasts, it is the best compliment,” Derouen said. “I am forever grateful to you all for your trust and kindness.”

Beyond news, Derouen has been a passionate advocate for animal adoption and is well known for her signature brooch collection, many of which were gifted by viewers over the years.

End of an Era in Acadiana News

The retirements of Montgomery and Derouen mark the departure of two respected journalists who have dedicated their careers to keeping us all informed in Acadiana. Their contributions to the region’s media landscape have left a lasting impact, and their presence on local television will be missed.

Both Montgomery and Derouen expressed their gratitude to viewers, colleagues, and the communities they have served. We wish them well as they step into their following chapters, and thank them for their legacy of storytelling and public service that will be remembered for years to come.