Anete Bērtule steps back from LTV after six seasons, citing 'beautiful changes'

Key facts

• Anete Bērtule announced her temporary departure on April 30, 2025, during the broadcast of 'Šodienas jautājums'.
• She has hosted the discussion program for six seasons, since its inception.
• Bērtule stated she is leaving due to 'beautiful changes' in her life.
• She joined Latvijas Televīzija (LTV) in 2012.
• Previously, she worked as a culture journalist for the program 'Panorāma'.
• Bērtule expressed gratitude for viewer support, suggestions, and criticism over the six seasons.

A surprise farewell on live television

On the evening of April 30, viewers of Latvijas Televīzija's discussion program 'Šodienas jautājums' witnessed an unexpected sign-off. Host Anete Bērtule, who has anchored the show since its first episode six seasons ago, told her audience she would not be returning to the screen after the holidays. 'This time I won't promise, as usual, that we'll meet after the holidays,' she said, breaking the routine of her customary goodbye. Bērtule added that her life is undergoing 'beautiful changes,' which prompted her to step away from the airwaves for a period. The announcement came at the close of the broadcast, catching many regular viewers by surprise. Bērtule did not specify the nature of the changes or provide a timeline for her return.

Six seasons of probing journalism

Bērtule has been the face of 'Šodienas jautājums' since its launch, earning a reputation for direct, concrete questioning and a firm editorial backbone. The program, a flagship discussion forum on LTV, has tackled a wide range of political and social issues under her stewardship. Before taking the helm of the discussion show, Bērtule worked as a culture journalist for LTV's evening news magazine 'Panorāma'. When offered the role of host for 'Šodienas jautājums', she did not hesitate, though she later acknowledged that the start was not smooth. Her tenure has been marked by a commitment to uncovering the truth, a quality that resonated with audiences. Over six seasons, she built a loyal following, with viewers appreciating her ability to ask tough questions while maintaining composure.

A heartfelt goodbye to viewers

In her farewell remarks, Bērtule expressed deep gratitude to her audience. 'Thank you from the bottom of my heart for your support and kind words over these six seasons,' she said. 'Thank you also for your suggestions and criticism. And most importantly, thank you for watching.' She emphasized that the program itself will continue in her absence. 'The show is not disappearing,' she assured viewers, urging them to remain with 'Šodienas jautājums'. With a smile, she concluded: 'We'll meet again sometime, but for now, all the best!' The warmth of her sign-off contrasted with the abruptness of the news, leaving viewers with a sense of both closure and anticipation.

A career rooted in public service broadcasting

Bērtule has been a staff member of Latvijas Televīzija since 2012, a tenure that spans more than a decade. Her career trajectory reflects a deep engagement with public service journalism, moving from cultural reporting to political discourse. The transition to 'Šodienas jautājums' marked a significant shift, placing her at the center of Latvia's media landscape. The program has often been a platform for debate on pressing national issues, and Bērtule's style—characterized by precision and persistence—helped define its editorial tone. Her departure, even temporary, leaves a notable gap in LTV's lineup. The network has not yet announced a replacement host or detailed plans for the program's immediate future.

What lies ahead for Bērtule and LTV

Bērtule's reference to 'beautiful changes' has sparked speculation among viewers and media observers, but she has not elaborated on her plans. The phrase suggests a personal or professional transition that she welcomes, though its exact contours remain private. For LTV, the challenge will be to maintain the momentum of 'Šodienas jautājums' during her hiatus. The program has built a consistent audience over six seasons, and any interim host will face the task of preserving its identity while Bērtule is away. Bērtule herself left the door open for a return. 'We'll meet again sometime,' she said, though she offered no specific date. Her temporary farewell is thus framed as a pause, not an end, to her role at the network.

A legacy of trust and tenacity

Over six seasons, Anete Bērtule has become synonymous with 'Šodienas jautājums', embodying the program's mission to hold power to account. Her departure, however brief, underscores the personal sacrifices that often accompany public-facing journalism. The decision to step away for 'beautiful changes' suggests a deliberate choice to prioritize life outside the studio. In an era of constant news cycles, such a move is both rare and revealing. As LTV prepares for a period without its signature host, the network and its viewers alike will be watching to see how the program evolves. Bērtule's legacy—of fearless questioning and genuine connection with the audience—sets a high bar for whoever steps into the role, even temporarily.

The bottom line

• Anete Bērtule announced a temporary departure from LTV's 'Šodienas jautājums' on April 30, 2025, after six seasons as host.
• She cited 'beautiful changes' in her life as the reason for stepping away, without providing further details.
• Bērtule has worked at LTV since 2012 and previously served as a culture journalist for 'Panorāma'.
• The program 'Šodienas jautājums' will continue to air during her absence, though no replacement host has been named.
• Bērtule's tenure was marked by direct questioning and a reputation for journalistic integrity, earning her a loyal viewer base.
• She left open the possibility of returning, telling viewers 'We'll meet again sometime'.