Reporter Bravely Handles Live TV Bug Encounter
Los Angeles KTLA 5 news reporter Rachel Menitoff experienced an unexpected challenge during a live report that drew significant attention online. While broadcasting from Sherman Oaks amidst an ongoing heat wave, a cockroach landed on Menitoff’s stomach before making its way across her neck and chest.
Despite the insect’s sudden appearance, Menitoff continued her report without interruption. She spoke about warm overnight temperatures in the Valley, explaining that they do not significantly drop, giving little relief from the daytime heat.
Menitoff remained composed as the cockroach even jumped onto her microphone before flying away. The following morning, her colleagues shared a video that showed her brushing the bug off after the live segment. Her calm demeanor was widely praised by her peers.
“That’s our Rachel Menitoff, who is so professional,” anchor Megan Henderson noted, complimenting her calmness. Reporter Eric Spillman added his admiration for Menitoff’s composure. Meteorologist Kirk Hawkins humorously remarked on the potential for nightmares about flying cockroaches.
“I said to myself, just get through this moment and then kind of shake it off,” Menitoff reflected in an interview. She noted the irony of reporting on heat while dealing with roaches drawn to the warm temperatures and camera lights.
Commentators on social media both lauded Menitoff’s professionalism and criticized the city’s cleanliness. Jeff Vaughn from “The Daily News Drop” acknowledged Menitoff’s restraint, and conservative commentator Steve Guest critiqued Los Angeles for its infestation problems.
Jerod MacDonald-Evoy of Arizona Mirror humorously shared that he preferred print to avoid on-air exclamations had he been in Menitoff’s position. Former mayoral candidate Spencer Pratt criticized the district’s conditions, comparing it unfavorably to less affluent areas.
Good Morning America co-anchor Gio Benitez lightheartedly suggested that Menitoff could have excelled on the show “Fear Factor.” The incident underscores the challenging conditions reporters sometimes face while delivering news.