After 12 years in the industry, Beesley departs from his role as a meteorologist at Fox 5 to focus on family and explore new professional opportunities.
In a surprising move, meteorologist Ryan Beesley has announced his departure from Fox 5, where he has served as a beloved weatherman for the past four years. Beesley, known for his passion and dedication to his craft, cited the demanding nature of the industry and his desire to prioritize his family as the driving factors behind his decision. With a new job on the horizon and a renewed sense of purpose, Beesley embarks on a new chapter in his career, leaving behind a legacy of accurate forecasting and community engagement.
A Family-Oriented Decision
After more than a decade in the industry, Beesley recognized the toll that the 24/7 nature of his job was taking on his family life. In an interview with The Atlanta Journal-Constitution, Beesley revealed that the loss of his father to cancer at a young age had deeply impacted him, leading him to prioritize being present for his own children. With three young kids, ages 2, 4, and 6, Beesley made the difficult choice to step away from his meteorology career and seek a more balanced lifestyle.
A Passionate Journey
From a young age, Beesley’s fascination with weather patterns and meteorology was evident. Starting his career as a weekend meteorologist in Biloxi, Mississippi, he honed his skills and knowledge, eventually making his way to Fox 5 in 2017. Throughout his time in the industry, Beesley remained passionate about his work, but as the demands of the job intensified, he realized that a career change was necessary to maintain his love for weather without sacrificing his personal life.
A Year-Long Decision
Beesley’s departure from Fox 5 was not a rash decision but rather the result of careful consideration and discussions with his family. The decision to leave his position as a meteorologist in Atlanta was a year-long conversation, with Beesley and his wife weighing the pros and cons of a career change. Ultimately, they decided that staying in Atlanta and pursuing a different professional path was the best choice for their family’s well-being.
A New Chapter Begins
While Beesley has not disclosed the details of his new job, he revealed that it will focus on fundraising. This career shift will offer him a more predictable schedule, allowing him to spend quality time with his family and be present for important milestones in his children’s lives. It will also be the first time in his career that he will have a normal weekday job, free from the demanding nature of meteorology.
Gratitude and Peace
Expressing his gratitude to Fox 5 for the opportunities he was given, Beesley acknowledged that his time at the network allowed him to fulfill his dream of working in the Atlanta market. Although he didn’t reach the position of chief meteorologist, he is content with his decision to leave the industry and is at peace with his choice. Beesley also shared that he underwent fusion surgery in June to address chronic back issues, which had caused him significant pain. The successful surgery has left him feeling like a new man, further affirming his decision to prioritize his well-being and family.
Conclusion
Ryan Beesley’s departure from Fox 5 marks the end of an era for Atlanta viewers who have come to rely on his accurate weather forecasts and charismatic on-air presence. His decision to leave the industry and pursue a career that allows him to prioritize his family and personal well-being serves as a reminder of the importance of work-life balance. As Beesley embarks on a new professional journey, his legacy as a dedicated meteorologist will continue to inspire others in the field.
