Mike Stevens, a beloved longtime feature reporter and storyteller for WNEP-TV (Newswatch 16) in northeastern and central Pennsylvania, passed away Tuesday, at the age of 81.
He was best known for his iconic segment "On the Pennsylvania Road", which ran for about 40 years.
In it, he traveled back roads to highlight everyday people, local quirks, crafts, and heartwarming stories across the region. Viewers loved his warm, distinctive voice and gentle storytelling style as he introduced them to "interesting people doing interesting things."
Stevens joined WNEP in 1975, starting as a beat reporter before creating "On the Pennsylvania Road." He also narrated the popular PhotoLink Library viewer photo segments (calling viewers his "dear viewers"), contributed to shows like Home & Backyard and Pennsylvania Outdoor Life, and was a frequent guest speaker at community events.
He semi-retired around 2019, passing the "On the Pennsylvania Road" torch to Jon Meyer, but continued contributing until recently to spend more time with his wife Judy and family.
His death was announced by WNEP Wednesday, with tributes pouring in from colleagues, viewers, and local media describing him as a "local TV legend" whose work warmed homes and captured the spirit of Pennsylvania life for decades. He is remembered as a kind, professional gentleman who became family to many through the screen.