A familiar face in Milwaukee broadcasting has returned after a decade away. Kidd O’Shea, a local journalist and former morning radio host, has joined TMJ4’s morning news team as the traffic anchor and community correspondent. O’Shea, originally from Mequon and a graduate of Homestead High School, launched his broadcasting career at the tender age of 16 with WKTI-FM, operating out of the same Milwaukee building where TMJ4 continues to function today.
O’Shea’s homecoming has been filled with nostalgia as he reconnects with the city’s people and places that shaped his early career. His return journey kicked off at Winkie’s, a family-owned business in Whitefish Bay where he began working at just six years old. O’Shea humorously dubbed himself the “self-proclaimed manager of the lower level.” His mother, proud of her son’s interpersonal skills, recounted how he managed to handle customers effectively even at a young age. His father added a light-hearted note, recalling the rivalry O’Shea had with the actual employees over his unofficial management role.
A memorable experience at Winkie’s occurred during a trip to Chicago with his father, where they recorded a mock newscast, lighting the spark for his broadcasting ambitions. “We got to wear jackets and pretend we were on TV,” O’Shea reminisced, revealing his childhood dreams of becoming a broadcaster.
Before his departure from Milwaukee in 2015, O’Shea co-hosted “Kidd and Elizabeth in the Morning” on WMYX-FM, a show that earned acclaim from the Wisconsin Broadcasters Association as the Best Morning Show on multiple occasions. His career took him to Washington D.C., where he joined WJLA-TV’s “Good Morning Washington.” During this time, he reported on significant events such as The Oscars, CMA Awards, and the Kennedy Center Honors. His dedication to representing the LGBTQ community earned him accolades as Best Radio Personality and Best TV Personality by the Washington Blade in 2024.
In addition to his work in lifestyle reporting, O’Shea served as a travel correspondent, connecting viewers with cultures across more than 20 international destinations, from Iceland to Jordan and various locales in Europe, Asia, and the Middle East.
Reflecting on his return to Milwaukee, O’Shea noted the city’s changes and the warm hospitality of its residents. “After a decade in D.C.,” he remarked, “you forget how nice people are in the Midwest. You hear that all the time, but I’ll even top that and say people in Wisconsin are the nicest.”
His homecoming tour included visits to beloved local spots, like the Public Market where he frequented for his favorite order: three ground beef tacos, “gringo style.” The owner quickly recognized him and commented on his consistency. O’Shea also mentioned Zaffiro’s pizza as his all-time favorite, further highlighting local culinary treasures.
O’Shea’s journey back wouldn’t be complete without catching up with former radio co-host Elizabeth Kay at The MIXX. They shared a chemistry that made their on-air time feel reminiscent of a prolonged sleepover with a best friend. Kay predicted a warm welcome for O’Shea upon his return, affirming, “Milwaukee, this city, will embrace you when you come back.”
As O’Shea reestablishes his roots in Milwaukee’s vibrant media landscape, he brings with him a wealth of experience and a sincere connection to the city he cherishes. The community is eager to embrace his return, and O’Shea is ready to share the stories that matter most in the heart of Wisconsin.
